Freudenberg, Germany

© Iain Masterton/age fotostock

Freudenberg, Germany

These half-timbered homes in the German village of Freudenberg look like the stuff of fairy tales. Peek inside and you might see an Advent Kranz or advent wreath made from pine boughs and candles. You’ll likely also see a Christmas tree, a tradition that has its roots here in Germany. It’s said the custom was started by Christians in the 16th century and that Protestant reformer Martin Luther began the practice of adorning the trees with lights.