Center of the world, the "Pälzer Weltachs"
Deep in the Palatinate Forest between Johanniskreuz and Waldleiningen lies the center of the world, or so the local poet Paul Münch claims. At the suggestion of the then forest master of Waldleiningen, the Weltachs was inaugurated in 1964 on the 459m-high Roßrück.
The Bavarian administration had a landmark set on a small rock table to be able to measure the area topographically. Nothing extraordinary in itself. But the dialect poet Paul Münch (1879-1951) made it into the axis of the world in a poem.
Since then, every year at a solemn ceremony, the Weltachs is "smeared and watched over so that nothing happens."
Author’s recommendation
- Restaurant Pizzeria Roma, Haselrainstraße 11, 67693 Waldleiningen
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Rest stops
Restaurant Pizzeria RomaSafety information
WATCH OUT! - Campaign for respectful coexistence in nature
- Fire & Smoking - Lighting fires, smoking, and grilling are strictly prohibited in the forest and must be avoided at all costs! Fires and thus great damage to nature and wildlife can only be prevented this way.
- Travel with consideration - Always behave attentively, kindly, and considerately towards everyone you meet on the way.
- Nature conservation - Stay on designated paths and avoid unnecessary noise when you are in nature. Leave the forest at dusk at the latest to avoid disturbing the rhythm of nocturnal animals.
- Picnic & Waste - Remember a trash bag for on the go and take waste with you after your trip. Use only the furnished rest areas for breaks and picnics.
- Leash dogs - Please keep your dog on a leash at all times. Other visitors and animals will thank you.
More info at www.pfalz.de/uffbasse
Die Weltachs, (die Weltachse)
Kirche
Paul-Münch-Scheune
Restaurant Pizzeria Roma
Ritterstein Seewog (Nr. 138)
Ritterstein Horterkopf Schanze 1793–94 (Nr. 145)
Ritterstein Schanze 1793/94 360 Schr. (Nr. 144)
Ritterstein Stall (Nr. 140)
Pfälzer Weltachs
Public transport
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
Access via B48
Parking
Parking at the Weltachs on B48, 67693 Waldleiningen or starting point: Haselrainstraße 11, 67693 Waldleiningen
Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
We Palatines and the Weltachs
By Paul Münch
If someone came up with the idea,to calculate exactly and deeplyThe axis of our world systemAnd mark it on the map,Then it would turn out preciselyThat in the center of the Palatinate stateLies the point which certainlyIs the main thing of the universeThe point around which everything revolvesWhat exists in the wide world.There the Weltachs is smearedAnd watched over so nothing happens,That in the course of the world in the endA small disturbance can be brought.
Since the Lord built the world,The Weltachs has been entrusted to us,Because among all human racesWe are best suited for such a task.We keep watch,We are attentive day and night,So that no one comes and wants to steal it.We smear it and oil itAnd polish it till it’s shining brightWith glass paper and polishing powder.That's why, as a matter of courseThe Weltachs spins eternally and infinitely.
Oh no! It would be a blow,If suddenly on a beautiful dayWe Palatine people lost our mindAnd just up and went on strike!The misfortune would be immeasurable:Then chaos would strike us all:The earth, the sun, the moon, and everything,Would cause fuss all on the same day.In the entire universe, there would be a rumbleAnd everything would go topsy-turvy.There would be a huge mess,The Milky Way would be a huge messAnd all the beautiful creationThings would go completely wrong.And so our LordAlready on the fourth day of creation:
"So," he said, "moon and stars and sunThey spin and gleam already,My Weltachs hums, it’s quite a fun,Like a whistle on the street.Now I need people who understandTo handle my Weltachs,Who are men of the first qualityAnd giants of wisdom,With brains, with duty and honor,In short! The Palatines have to come,They then have to smear the WeltachsAnd repair the ball bearing."
"And" – he said – "then it will be arranged,That everything in world historyAt the Palatinate people and stateHas its origin and continuation."So he said. And so it came about.And around the Weltachs,As it has been for many thousands of yearsThe Palatinate people sit and take careDay and night, early and lateThat God’s world plan goes right,And that the universe is controlledAs God envisioned it.And what does not happen in the PalatinateIs new and has no value.
Book recommendations for this region:
Equipment
Of course! The right hiking equipment is crucial for a pleasant and safe experience in nature. Here are some important components you should consider:
- Backpack: Choose a comfortable backpack with enough space for your gear. Look for padded shoulder straps and a hip belt for better carrying comfort.
- Shoes: Good hiking shoes are essential. They should be waterproof, breathable, and well broken in to avoid blisters.
- Clothing: Layer your clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Functional underwear, insulating layers, and a waterproof jacket are recommended.
- Water and snacks: Stay hydrated and bring energy-rich snacks to maintain your energy during the hike.
- Navigation: A map, compass, or GPS device is important to find your way in nature.
- First aid kit: A small first aid kit can be very helpful in an emergency.
- Tools: A multitool or pocket knife can be useful for solving minor problems on the way.
- Sun protection: Don’t forget to take sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
- Trekking poles: These can help relieve the joints and improve balance, especially on uneven terrain.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions