But I love the smell of all the spices - cinnamon, aniseed, roasted almonds and of course mulled wine.
I went to Sunday morning Mass in the Dom, Frankfurt's cathedral, which is a huge tourist attraction. This historic cathedral served for 300 years as the site of coronation for Holy Roman Emperors. Although it was more or less destroyed in the Second World War, it still retains that venerable feel of times long past. Guided tours take place when there is no church service being held. The inside is awe inspiring. There's a museum and you can climb the 95 meters to the bell tower to view the city. A word of caution: the stairs are narrow and very steep so if you are a bit creaky on your knees, it's probably better if you skip this. If you can do the climb you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Frankfurt. I must admit I didn't have the energy although I would have loved to be able to view the city and its Christmas decorations.
I love the whole area around the cathedral and the Roemer, with its half-timbered buildings. This time, the Christmas market stalls had been set up but were not open until next day. It all made me feel how close we are getting to the festive season.
I am currently editing a novel which I wrote some years ago and a small part of which I have set in the Roemer. I mention the St. Nikolas church, the Nikolaikirche, in the story. It is such a lovely building and very typical of Germany, I think.
All in all, my short trip put me completely in the Christmas spirit so I decorated my apartment today and now I am all set for this happy season.
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