Vacha

Vacha, a small town with a long history in the region of Thuringia, is a stop of great symbolism on the Royal Road, one of Germany's main Jacobean routes. Situated by the Werra River, it was for decades a border city divided by the Iron Curtain. Its main landmark is the "Bridge of Unity" (Brücke der Einheit), a medieval stone bridge that became a symbol of division and later reunification of Germany. For the pilgrim, crossing this bridge is an act charged with recent history. Vacha's old town is very well preserved, with numerous wooden-framed houses creating a picturesque atmosphere. The city offers a peaceful retreat and a deep lesson in European history. It is a stage that allows reflection on borders, freedom, and unity, enriching the pilgrimage with a unique historical and social perspective in the heart of Germany.