Third Local Meeting in Frankfurt(Main) / Germany
On December 9th and 10th, all partners convened for the culminating transnational meeting of our project. Given the logistical challenges in organizing the gathering in Medebach, the headquarters of the German partner Deutsche Stickgilde, we opted for Frankfurt am Main as our meeting hub. Frankfurt, the fifth-largest city in Germany, offered an ideal setting with its rich cultural diversity among residents.
Our host, Bärbel, warmly welcomed us on Saturday in our designated meeting room at a hotel in the southern part of Frankfurt, conveniently situated just a short distance from the River Main. This river serves as the official demarcation between South and North Germany, creating a symbolic journey for us as we convened in the southern region and later explored the northern part in the afternoon.
Two representatives from each partner country were present, with three staff members from the partners in the Netherlands and Istanbul University. As the closure of our project rapidly approached, the focal point of this meeting was to ensure that all requirements had been met. A significant portion of our discussions centered on the content and presentation of our learning platform, which encompasses 18 micro-courses on various subjects. The impressive outcome can be explored here, and we extend an invitation to everyone to delve into the enriching content of these courses.
Additionally, we delved into the detailed paperwork that needs completion by January 31st, 2024. This includes finalizing timesheets, uploading contracts, attendance lists, dissemination materials, and other essential documentation onto our private platform.
In the afternoon, we paid a visit to the Historische Museum Frankfurt. This museum intricately showcases the evolution of Frankfurt, tracing its roots from a modest trading post along the River Main to its current status as a global metropolis. Frankfurt has a rich financial history, boasting one of the first stock exchanges and consistently playing a prominent role in the world of finance. Presently, the European Central Bank is headquartered in Frankfurt, along with approximately 200 banks, a significant majority of which are international banking institutions.
Situated on the renowned Römer, originally established as a trading house for Italian merchants, the museum stands as a testament to Frankfurt’s deep-rooted association with commerce. Given that Italy equated to Rome for the people of Frankfurt, the building came to be known as the “Roman House” or “Römer” in German.
Come December, the expansive square in front of the Römer, traditionally a bustling market, transforms into the backdrop for the renowned Christmas market. This festive season brings forth an array of delectable treats for everyone to savor.
In the evening, we ventured to one of the city’s most celebrated Indian restaurants, where we relished a flavorsome meal that left some of the guests slightly flushed from the fiery intensity of the dishes!
After wrapping up our second day of work, we seized the opportunity to explore some captivating spots in Frankfurt. Later in the afternoon, we embarked on a truly special journey through the New Old Town of Frankfurt. This particular area, centered around the iconic Römer, has been meticulously reconstructed, faithfully echoing its pre-World War II architectural splendor. It’s a remarkable feat, especially considering the widespread destruction that befell nearly the entire inner city of Frankfurt during the war.
Even for someone like me, with over 30 years of residency in Frankfurt, this tour proved to be the most engaging and enlightening experience. To anyone contemplating a visit to Frankfurt, I wholeheartedly recommend scheduling this tour – it’s an opportunity to witness the city’s rich history and architectural resilience firsthand.
In the evening, we enjoyed a delightful dinner at one of the renowned Frankfurt restaurants nestled in Sachsenhausen, the city’s oldest quarter. Sachsenhausen not only exudes historical charm but also boasts eateries that serve hearty fare and the famed Äpplewoi, a dry cider that may not initially captivate your taste buds with the first sip. Yet, the more you indulge, the more its flavor unfolds and grows on you. However, a word of caution – it has a knack for stirring things up in the nether regions.
Served in traditional “Bembel” earthenware jars, each guest received a miniature Bembel as a gift, filled with another Frankfurt delicacy synonymous with the Christmas season: Bethmännchen. These delightful cookies are crafted from almond paste, adorned with three almonds each, creating a sweet treat that perfectly complements the evening’s festivities.
