Deep in the heart of Trier lies a secret. A secret hidden within the Mattheiser Wald. This is not just any forest. It is a haven for rare wildlife. It is a testament to the past.
For decades the Mattheiser Wald was a military training ground. German and then French troops used it. Civilians were forbidden from entering. Artillery practice from the nearby Castelnau Kaserne targeted this very forest. Wide tank tracks still scar the landscape. Remnants of practice grenades litter the area.
But this military past paradoxically helped nature. The forest was largely untouched. Dead wood remained. The heavy tanks created ruts and dips. These filled with rainwater. These man-made pools became perfect breeding grounds. Rare amphibians like the yellow-bellied toad thrive here. So does the critically endangered crested newt.
Many of these wetlands are in open areas. These areas were also formed by military maneuvers. Today sheep and goats graze here. They prevent the area from being overgrown. Nearby is a unique type of forest. It is a Mittelwald. In this forest trees are not felled. Instead they are cut back to the stump every 20 years. Some old trees are left. This traditional method of firewood production is rare today. It creates more light and a greater variety of plants. Bats love this habitat. They hunt here because of the insects.
Since the French military left in 1999 the Mattheiser Wald has become popular. People enjoy walks and hikes. Joggers and mountain bikers use the trails. It is important to follow the rules. Vehicles are banned off-trail. This protects the delicate ecosystem and the animals. The elusive wildcat might be among them. There are photos and videos. A genetic analysis is needed for final proof. Scientists have set traps hoping to find wildcat hairs. A positive result would make the Mattheiser Wald even more special.
The Mattheiser Wald is more than just a forest. It is a living reminder of the past. It is a refuge for wildlife. It is a testament to the resilience of nature. It’s a perfect place for a peaceful escape. Come and discover its secrets for yourselves.