Washed away by the Rhine’s relentless flow. That’s the legend of old Pfotz. Today we stand before Neupotz its successor. This charming village in Rhineland-Palatinate has a history entwined with the river. Originally known as Pfotz it was a fishing village. A dam built near Jockgrim in 1522 rerouted the Rhine. The old village was lost to the floods.
In 1535 the resilient people of Pfotz rebuilt. They established Neupfotz a new beginning on higher ground. The name itself reflects this rebirth. It means “new Pfotz” a testament to their perseverance. The name Neupotz derives from the Latin word puteus meaning well or spring. This suggests the presence of a vital water source in the original settlement.
Neupotz’s location near the Old Rhine is significant. Parts of the nearby forest are frequently flooded. This auwald or floodplain forest is a unique ecosystem. It highlights the ongoing interplay between the village and the river. The Erlenbach and Otterbach rivers also flow through the area. Several lakes are found close to the Old Rhine such as the Setzfeldsee and the Obere Flättigsee.
The village wasn’t always about resilience. In the 1970s plans for a nuclear power plant were proposed. The Chernobyl disaster in 1986 thankfully ended these plans. It’s a reminder of how history can shape a community’s future. Another fascinating project was a proposed floating village on the Setzfeldsee. The project was ultimately abandoned due to local opposition.
Neupotz boasts a rich history evidenced by its cultural heritage. The village has a well-preserved town hall. This houses a local history museum showcasing Neupotz’s unique story. The streets Hauptstrasse and Kirchstrasse form a historic ensemble. These are designated as protected areas reflecting Neupotz’s architectural legacy. The village even has its own town crier system still in use today. It’s a reminder of a slower pace of life where community announcements are made audibly.
And then there’s the legend. The ghostly bell of the submerged village of Pfotz. Legend says it tolls beneath the water on Sunday mornings. This haunting tale reminds us of Neupotz’s roots. It’s a story woven into the very fabric of this place. So next time you hear the wind whisper through the trees here you might just hear the faint chimes of the lost bells of Pfotz.