News.Life

Germany Weighs Reopening Controversial Nord Stream Pipelines

Unknown business, german, international relations, politics, politics and government

Politicians from the conservative party who may head the upcoming German administration have suggested reconsidering the importation of Russian natural gas. This proposal has been endorsed by the far-right faction.
 

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BMcPd" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BMcPd.jpg"/>

 Parliamentarians of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) have caused a political row in Germany by welcoming an apparent US initiative to repair and re-open the Nord Stream gas pipelines in the Baltic Sea between Russia and Germany.


 On Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that talks with the United States regarding Ukraine also covered the topic of reviving Nord Stream. This confirmation came following reports from a German daily newspaper.
 
 Handelsblatt
 
 it was reported that a United States-based investor had submitted an application to the U.S. government with the intention of purchasing the pipeline.


 CDU Bundestag member Thomas Bareiss endorsed the concept in an extensive LinkedIn post where he commented, "Our American counterparts are so entrepreneurial."


 "When peace returns and the arms cease firing between #Russia and #Ukraine (and let’s hope that occurs shortly), relationships will stabilize, sanctions will eventually be removed, and naturally, #natural gas can resume flowing through possibly another #pipeline but one controlled by the United States," he noted.


 He received support from Jan Heinisch, who is part of the CDU's energy task force during the party’s talks for forming a coalition government with the center-left SPD. "Should a fair and safe peace ever come into being, then we should have permission to discuss purchasing natural gas from Russia once more," Heinisch stated to Politico.

<h3>
 What is Nord Stream?
</h3>

 The Nord Stream system comprises two natural gas pipelines, with each pipeline having two separate tubes extending from northwestern Russia to Germany’s northern coastline. Although Nord Stream 2 was finished in 2021 and remains unused, Nord Stream 1 commenced operations in 2011. This line transported Russian gas across Europe via an entity jointly owned by a group involving Russia’s Gazprom along with several German, French, and Dutch firms.


 On September 1, 2022, Russia ceased operations of Nord Stream 1, citing EU sanctions as the reason for halting its operation due to technical difficulties. However, this claim was refuted by Siemens, the German engineering firm responsible for maintaining the turbine.


 A few weeks after that, on September 26, three out of the four Nord Stream pipelines suffered significant damage apparently due to sabotage. Although the perpetrators remain unidentified as of now, German officials previously released an arrest warrant for a Ukrainian individual suspected in this incident, but the person is still at large.

<h3>
 Back into Russian dependence?
</h3>

 The German Economics Ministry, which remains under the control of the Green Party within Olaf Scholz’s governing coalition, rejected the idea of resuming Russian natural gas imports. Following reports about potential U.S.-Russia talks that emerged at the beginning of March, a ministry representative stated, “Ensuring autonomy from Russian gas holds both defensive and strategic significance for the German administration, and they remain committed to this stance.”


 However, Germany is poised to establish a new administration, likely led by CDU head Friedrich Merz, with the SPD serving as the smaller ally in the coalition. A shift back towards purchasing Russian natural gas—even supposing that Russia and Ukraine achieve peace—would mark a substantial reversal for German policy.


 The Alternative for Germany (AfD) welcomed Bareiss' remarks with enthusiasm. “It’s encouraging to see that a CDU Member of Parliament is exploring avenues for implementing policy driven by interests,” said Tino Chrupalla, the co-chairman of the far-right party, during an interview with ZDF last week. “There is a necessity to revert to obtaining cost-effective natural gas from Russia, managed solely by the participating traders.”


 However, energy policy experts in Germany have consistently rejected this notion. Claudia Kemfert, who leads the energy, transport, and environment division at the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), stated, "In my opinion, this is not a wise suggestion."


 "For quite some time now, we have understood that Russia cannot be considered a dependable source," she stated to SANTIJAYA via email. "Given the global conflicts over fossil fuels, becoming reliant on an aggressor once more—geopolitically speaking—would be extremely reckless." Furthermore, she noted, such a US-Russia agreement regarding Nord Stream could result in Germany being twice as vulnerable to dependence issues.


 Michael Rodi, an environmental and energy law professor at Greifswald University, found it perplexing that this debate has resurfaced in Germany. He shared with SANTIJAYA, “This conversation seems odd.” He also noted, “While it’s unexpected for the CDU to initiate such discussions, it isn’t shocking that the Greens would adopt opposing views.”


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BMm1S" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BMm1S.jpg"/>

<h3>
 SPD's relations with Russia
</h3>

 Aside from the AfD, the German political party traditionally most inclined towards sustaining connections with Russia is the SPD. During the Cold War, they promoted détente with the Soviet Union using the motto "Change Through Rapprochement."


 The ex-Social Democrat chancellor,
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/putin-and-schröder-a-special-german-russian-friendship/a-55219973">
 Gerhard Schröder, who refers to himself as a personal friend
 </a>
 Of Russia's President Vladimir Putin, remains officially at the helm of the Nord Stream board. Following Russia’s comprehensive invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the SPD faced significant criticism from the CDU due to their historical ties with Russia and their crucial role in facilitating the negotiation of the Nord Stream agreement.


 In 2022, as the head of the opposition, Merz said during an interview with the radio network.
 
 Deutschlandfunk
 
 Germany’s reliance on Russian energy needs to cease at once, and there was a call for a parliamentary investigation into the connections between the SPD and Russia. The implication being that this probe might reveal “entanglements within the SPD that run far deeper than currently understood.”


 The German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier from the SPD party, had to acknowledge his responsibility during his tenure as foreign minister under Chancellor Angela Merkel. He stated in 2022, “Persisting with Nord Stream 2 was undoubtedly an error.” The president added, “We clung to connections like this one when Russia no longer trusted them, and our allies cautioned us about moving forward with such projects.”

<h3>
 Economic and environmental concerns
</h3>

 Although rehabilitating the pipeline is considered technologically achievable—with costs estimated around $500 million—the Nord Stream company, headquartered in Switzerland, is presently involved in bankruptcy discussions. This situation implies that the pipelines might be available for purchase at a reduced price.


 However, every potential purchaser would essentially be counting on both a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine resulting in reduced sanctions against Russia, as well as Europe’s shift towards renewable energy progressing at an insufficient pace. “Should the energy transition prove successful, there won’t be much demand left for Russian natural gas,” forecasted Rodi.


 Natural gas has no place in our future plans—it’s evident," stated Kemfert from DIW. "Under the terms of the Paris Agreement, we are obligated to reach climate neutrality, an objective we must fulfill. We made the choice to eliminate fossil fuels quite some time ago—now it's crucial that we take action.


 However, it is still uncertain if there is sufficient political determination to drive forward with the energy transformation and sustain energy autonomy from Russia going forward. It appears that certain members of the upcoming German administration might not be as dedicated to this objective.


 
 Edited by Rina Goldenberg
 

<h3>
 While you’re here: Each Tuesday, the SANTIJAYA editors compile updates on political and social developments in Germany. You can subscribe here for the weekly email newsletter called Berlin Briefing.
</h3>

 Author: Ben Knight

Germany Weighs Reopening Controversial Nord Stream Pipelines

Unknown business, german, international relations, politics, politics and government

Politicians from the conservative party who may head the upcoming German administration have suggested reconsidering the importation of Russian natural gas. This proposal has been endorsed by the…

US Researchers: Discover the Opportunities Awaiting You in Germany!

Unknown german, news, politics, politics and government, world

Trump's massive attack on science is driving US researchers away. German research institutions could benefit, but they’re also concerned about Trump’s impact on global science.
 

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BLTem" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BLTem.jpg"/>

 Major job cuts, reduced or eliminated research funding, and political instructions — these were some of the significant impacts during US President Donald Trump's administration.
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/trump-s-assault-on-science-bad-for-the-us-good-for-eu/a-71897988">
 attack on science
 </a>
 is not just impacting domains he disapproves of, including climate, energy, social issues, or gender studies. It even extends to progressive sectors like AI or
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/crucial-mrna-vaccine-research-at-risk-in-the-us/a-71989604">
 mRNA vaccine technologies
 </a>
 are being impacted.


 Critics view Trump's assault on research freedom as a politically-motivated attack on the pluralistic system and the liberal democratic order. Trump, critics say, is taking aim at the scientific method of refuting claims and myths with facts and analyses.


 The doubt generated by Trump's moves is so significant that numerous individuals are affected.
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/us-science-funding-freeze-a-threat-to-academic-freedom/a-71501071">
 Researchers aim to exit the United States.
 </a>
 For job opportunities in Canada and Asia, with particular emphasis on Europe.

<h3>
 Trump's assault on research undermines worldwide scientific efforts.
</h3>

 Europe, particularly Germany, could greatly profit from a "brain drain." However, there should be no cause for celebration. The unparalleled assault on scientific endeavors initiated by Trump adversely affects the whole globe since research flourishes through global collaboration.


 If pharmaceutical advancements stall in the United States, it hampers worldwide medical progression. Similarly, if there are gaps in data regarding highly contagious diseases or bird flu,
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/trump-s-withdrawal-from-who-a-strategic-mistake/a-71267252">
 Currently circulating throughout the United States
 </a>
 When they are absent, the globe is inadequately ready for a possible future pandemic.


 "We must now join forces with our counterparts in the U.S., as fundamentally, we require robust scientific efforts there. We cannot easily fill gaps that currently exist in areas such as climate research, global health studies, or concerning the shift towards renewable energies," stated Otmar Wiestler, who serves as the president of the Helmholtz Association.


 "The higher the level of intervention in science, the more severe the worldwide repercussions will be, affecting even the United States," Weisertler stated to SANTIJAYA.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1BLNly" data-reference="video"/>

<h3>
 U.S. researchers are keen on visiting Germany.
</h3>

 Trump's actions offer opportunities to attract top researchers to Europe, and European research institutions do not want to miss this chance. At the same time, they do not want to strain their traditionally good cooperation with US partners or exploit the researchers' concerns.


 So far, accurate statistics regarding American researchers looking to relocate to Europe have not been established. Nonetheless, prominent German research organizations are witnessing an increase in application submissions from the United States, encompassing several highly sought-after scholars they aspire to bring aboard.


 At the beginning of February 2025, Patrick Kramer, who leads the Max Planck Society, stated that application numbers from the United States had increased twofold at minimum, with some areas seeing an uptick as high as threefold.


 According to Christina Beck from the Max Planck Society, sought-after postdoctoral students from countries like India, South Korea, and China view Germany as an appealing option alongside the United States.


 "Germany remains a fundamentally independent and appealing option compared to the United States as a research destination," stated Helmholtz President Wiestler.


 With more than 46,000 staff members and an annual budget exceeding 6.3 billion euros, the Helmholtz Association stands as Germany’s premier institution dedicated to funding and advancing scientific inquiry.


 "We can thus infer that international researchers are progressively viewing career opportunities here more favorably. This observation is applicable not just to scientists presently working in the U.S., but also to skilled researchers globally who are seeking alternative options. A comparable pattern was noted following Brexit," stated Wiestler.

<h3>
 Is it advisable for Germany to actively attract researchers from the US?
</h3>

 In the view of the Max Planck Society, there is no issue with Germany aggressively seeking top talent from the United States. According to Dr. Christina Beck, this chance must not be overlooked.


 President Helmholtz Wiestler differs: "I find the current calls for actively recruiting leading researchers from the U.S. to be short-sighted. The United States remains an exceptionally important scientific collaborator for us, and we expect this relationship to continue in the years ahead."


 The Fraunhofer Society for the Promotion of Practical Research shares this perspective. According to spokesman Patrick Dieckhoff speaking to SANTIJAYA, Fraunhofer "actively seeks out top talent." Nonetheless, he clarified that "at present, there isn’t a specific initiative aimed at recruiting American scientists due to recent events."


 The Leibniz Association, comprising 96 individual research organizations, has no plans to specifically lure scientists from the United States.


 "Utmost urgency lies in enhancing our collaboration immediately to back up our American counterparts. Luring away American colleagues could potentially lead to an even greater decline in American scientific efforts," stated Martina Brockmeier, the president of Leibniz, to SANTIJAYA.


 If the researchers who are impacted want to relocate, "we will be more than willing to provide our support," stated Brockmeier.

<h3>
 Is it possible for German research organizations to carry out leading-edge research?
</h3>

 Studies facilitate new inventions, stimulate economic expansion, and assist in tackling significant contemporary and upcoming issues. Over recent years, Germany has significantly increased funding for scientific endeavors and intends to allocate over 3.5 percent of its GDP to research and development moving forward.


 The German government offers dependable financial backing for scientific endeavors via both federal and state-level funds. Additionally, the autonomy of science is enshrined in the constitution, guaranteeing that research conducted in Germany remains unrestricted and self-governing.


 The excellence of leading German research is mirrored in its publishing statistics as well: According to the "Nature Index" for 2023, which assesses the output of publications in the natural sciences from academic institutions and universities, Germany holds the highest position in Europe and stands at number three globally, following closely behind the frontrunners—the United States and China.


 Numerous factors make our organization an excellent choice, irrespective of present circumstances," stated Helmholtz President Wiestler. "Germany stands out as a prime research hub for these areas.

<h3>
 Bureaucratic hurdles
</h3>

 Although German research stands out globally, Brockmeier pointed out that there are significant administrative obstacles when trying to attract scientists, reforms for which are urgently needed.


 Brockmeier stated this involves cutting down excess bureaucratic procedures, fostering greater autonomy, securing stable funding over the long term, enhancing the appeal of academic professions, and streamlining the process of transferring technology and collaborating with businesses.


 President Wiestler of Helmholtz also urges for "a
 <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/uncovered-abuse-at-top-german-science-institution/a-71897800">
 stronger welcome culture
 </a>
 Along with a significant decrease in bureaucratic red tape for scientific endeavors, the new federal administration needs to take swift action.


 He stated that only through this approach can we develop an environment conducive to attracting top talent globally on a sustainable basis.


 In order to lure American researchers, swift and straightforward measures are required, including expedited visa and scheduling processes, according to statements made by Max Planck spokesperson Beck.


 "The incoming federal administration shouldn’t eliminate the current dual citizenship rule. This policy has proven attractive to international researchers following Brexit," Beck noted additionally.


 
 This article was translated from the original in German.
 


 Author: Alexander Freund

US Researchers: Discover the Opportunities Awaiting You in Germany!

Unknown german, news, politics, politics and government, world

Trump's massive attack on science is driving US researchers away. German research institutions could benefit, but they’re also concerned about Trump’s impact on global science. Major job cuts,…

"Unsichtbare Schätze Against Cash": Kandidat Gewinnt 60.000 Euro

Unknown auctions, german, money, news, television

Seit 2013 bieten "Bares für Rares" sowohl begeisternde Sammler als auch Anfänger die Möglichkeit, in der Sendung wertvolle Kuriositäten anzubieten. Manchmal bringt das Auftritt in dem ZDF-Programm wirklich hohe Vorteile für einige Teilnehmer.


 Denn obwohl gelegentlich nur der kleinste Geldbeutel gefüllt wird, gibt es auch Tage, an demen die Händler richtig gut dabei verdienen können. Denken Sie nur daran, wie sie bei einer Rekordsumme von 60.000 Euro glänzten! Aber was waren die "Bares für Rares"-Verkäufer bereit, dafür auszugeben?

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bares-fur-rares-rekordsumme-geknackt">
 „Bares für Rares“: Rekordbetrag erreicht!
</h2>

 Wir haben die drei höchsten Umsätze in der Geschichte von „Bares für Rares“ für euch zusammengetragen.


 
 Hier ist Nummer 3: Der Oldtimer
 

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AXVDK" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AXVDK.jpg"/>

 Es war eine emotionale Auktion, bei der ein Autofan im ZDF-Schrottmarkt dabei war, seinen Traum zu verwirklichen. Er präsentierte einen eigenrestaurierten Oldtimer und erstaunte damit nicht nur den Moderator Horst Lichter, sondern sicherlich auch die Fernsehzuschauer. Das Fahrzeug war kein geringerer als das Kultmodell "Borgward Isabella", welches der Teilnehmer früher für 7.000 DM erworben hatte.


 Beim "Bares für Rares" konnte sich der Autofix-Experte insgesamt sehr wohl fühlen, obwohl es beim Verkaufen doch etwas schwierig war: Er steckte 35.000 Euro in die Tasche – und selbst mit den Tränen, die ihm kamen, ist das eine gute Abwicklung gewesen.


 
 Platz 2: Jesus-Kreuz-Reliquie
 


 Platz zwei unter den teuersten versteigerten Kuriositäten des Programms hielt sich über Jahre hinweg an erster Stelle der "Bares für Rares"-Top-Liste. Dieses Kunstwerk ist eine Kreuzschmucksache geschmückt mit 40 Karat Edelsteinen und birgt im Zentrum echtes Kostbarkeitsgut: Splitter vom Kreuz Jesu Christi! Die Authentizität steht außer Frage, da die sensationelle Sache ein päpstliches Siegel trägt. Laut Schätzung durch die Fachexpertin sollte dieser Gegenstand zu jener Zeit etwa 80.000 Euro wert sein!


 So viele Geld war das aber gar nicht, was die Verkäuferin dem Show-Team anbot. Letztendlich erhielt sie jedoch 42.000 Euro dafür.

<div class="fd-es-related-with-image">
 <div>
 <div class="entry-wrapper">
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 Schalke-Idol beim „Bares für Rares“: Er präsentiert ein schwieriges Ratespiel mit
 </a>
 </div>
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 „Bares für Rares“: Waldi wird von einer Fälschung getroffen – mit schwerwiegenden Konsequenzen
 </a>
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 Rolex, IWC und andere beim „Bares für Rares“: 30.000-Mark-Uhr erlebt starken Wertverlust
 </a>
 </div>
 </div>
 </div>
</div>

 
 Platz 1: Roter Oldtimer
 


 Im Jahr 2024 löste das Jesus-Kreuz einen roten Oldtimer ab, der definitiv ein Augenfang ist. Es handelt sich dabei um eine exklusive Version des Jaguars E-Type Coupé vom Jahr 1968. Dieser Sportwagen würde sicherlich viele Fans alter Fahrzeuge bereitwillig ihr Geld überlassen. Genauso wie die Händler bei „Bares für Rares“!


 Das leuchtend rote Exemplar wurde im Programm "Bares für Rares" mit einem Schlag für 60.000 Euro verkauft - obwohl die vorherige Einschätzung bei 70.000 und 80.000 Euro gelegen hatte. Der Moderator Horst Lichter fasste das Highlight der Show zusammen: „Dieses Fahrzeug ist das Schönste, was je auf dieser Erde gefahren wurde."


 Lassen wir mal schauen, wer den roten Flitzer eines Tages von seiner Position auf dem Thron der Verkaufspreise verdrängt!

"Unsichtbare Schätze Against Cash": Kandidat Gewinnt 60.000 Euro

Unknown auctions, german, money, news, television

Seit 2013 bieten "Bares für Rares" sowohl begeisternde Sammler als auch Anfänger die Möglichkeit, in der Sendung wertvolle Kuriositäten anzubieten. Manchmal bringt das Auftritt in dem ZDF-Programm w…

덴마크, 미국행 트랜스젠더에 여행 경고 발령

Unknown german, government, government regulations, international travel, korean

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BqLgS" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BqLgS.jpg"/>


 덴마크가 미국에 관한 새로운 여행 권고를 발표한 가운데 성전환자와 논바이너리(남성과 여성이라는 이분법적인 성별에서 벗어났다고 생각하는 사람)에 속하는 사람들은 출국 전에 미 대사관 측에 문의해야 한다는 경고가 포함됐다.


 22일(현지시각) 홍콩 사우스차이나모닝포스트(SCMP), 영국 가디언 등 외신들에 따르면 덴마크 외무부는 성명을 통해 "여권에 성별이 'X'로 기재돼 있거나 성별을 변경한 경우, 여행 전에 미국 대사관에 연락해 귀하에게 적용되는 사항에 관한 정보를 얻는 것이 좋다"고 밝혔다.


 이 권고안은 덴마크 외무부 웹사이트 미국 여행 권고란에 게재됐다. 최근 독일과 핀란드 등 몇 개 국가들도 비슷한 내용의 미국 여행 권고안을 발표했다.


 게이, 레즈비언, 양성애자 및 트랜스젠더 등 성소수자를 위한 인권단체 'LGBT+ 덴마크' 관계자는 "공항에서 사람들이 멈춰서서 입국을 거부 당하거나, 공항에서 부적절하고 불편한 일이 발생할 수 있다는 점이 걱정된다"고 전했다.


 이 같은 우려는 도널드 트럼프가 미국 대통령에 취임하면서 발표한 행정명령으로 인한 것으로 풀이된다.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AfkKm" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AfkKm.jpg"/>


 앞서 트럼프 대통령은 생물학적 성을 우선으로 하겠다는 취지로 '젠더 이데올로기와 극단주의로부터의 여성 보호 및 연방정부의 생물학적 진실 복원' 행정명령에 서명했다. 이는 미국 정부 기관이 출생 시 지정된 남성과 여성이라는 두 가지 성별만 인정하도록 규정하고 있다.


 이에 따라 미국 현지에서는 여권을 발급할 때 남성(M)과 여성(F) 외에 제3의 성으로 'X'를 표기할 수 있었던 절차가 폐기됐다. 또 출생증명서와 신분 증명서가 일치하지 않는 트랜스젠더의 성별 수정이 사실상 불가능해졌다.


 덴마크 외무부에 따르면, 트럼프 행정부가 집권한 이래로 미국 국경에서 덴마크인이 강제로 추방된 적은 없다.


 다만, 독일 외무부 대변인은 최근 여러 독일인이 미국 국경에서 구금된 이후 미국 여행 권고 사안을 업데이트하면서 "미국 비자가 모든 경우에 입국 자격을 부여하는 것은 아니다"라고 했다.


 하지만 대변인은 이 업데이트가 여행 경고를 의미하는 것은 아니라고 강조했다.

덴마크, 미국행 트랜스젠더에 여행 경고 발령

Unknown german, government, government regulations, international travel, korean

덴마크가 미국에 관한 새로운 여행 권고를 발표한 가운데 성전환자와 논바이너리(남성과 여성이라는 이분법적인 성별에서 벗어났다고 생각하는 사람)에 속하는 사람들은 출국 전에 미 대사관 측에 문의해야 한다는 경고가 포함됐다. 22일(현지시각) 홍콩 사우스차이나모닝포스트(SCMP), 영국 가디언 등 외신들에 따르면 덴마크 외무부는 성명을 통해 "여권에 성…

Top 10 All-Time Bundesliga Goalscorers: From Müller to Lewandowski

Unknown football clubs, football players, german, soccer, sports

German football has a vibrant history of goal-scorers dating back to the inception of the competition in
 
 1963, including some of the very best we’ve seen.
 


 Since then, the competition has mostly been dominated by Bayern Munich, who have won it 32 times. Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Monchengladbach are tied in second place with five titles each, and there has certainly been a monopoly on the league title.


 That has stretched to the players as well, with four of the top 10 scorers in the competition’s history all featuring for Bayern, and some iconic goal-scorers have dominated in Germany.


 Having previously focused on other top leagues in Europe, we’ve decided to look at the top 10 goal-scorers in
 Bundesliga
 history to chart and celebrate the very best names.

<h2>
 10. Mario Gomez – 170 goals
</h2>

 Having netted goals consistently for Bayern, Wolfsburg and Stuttgart, Mario Gomez had proven time and time again that he was a reliable figure at the top end of the pitch in Germany.


 Throughout his entire career, he played mainly in Germany with only one stint at Fiorentina. He stood out as an intelligent and formidable forward.


 He topped the scoring charts once in Germany whilst at Bayern, where, arguably, he played his best football. From 2010 to 2012, he recorded his best-ever form, as he netted a total of 80 goals in two consecutive seasons, where he was considered one of Europe’s best marksmen at that time.


 Moreover, at the height of his career, he played a key role in guiding Germany to the UEFA European Championship 2008 final, securing third place in both the FIFA World Cup 2010 and UEFA European Championship 2012.

<h2>
 9. Dieter Müller and Klaus Алloffс – 177 goals
</h2>

 Both strikers began netting goals in the 1970s, and both became legends at FC Koln for their efforts.


 Dieter Muller helped lead his side to one league title and two German Cups whilst becoming the top scorer in the division for two seasons in a row. His games-to-goal ratio is only beaten by the top two on this list, and with 159 in 248 games, he was a brilliant striker.


 
 READ:
 The top 10 goalscorers in Europe’s top five leagues in 2024-25: Can anyone catch Salah?
 


 Klaus Allofs boasted a similar career. While his goals came in more games at a slower rate, he won more trophies overall at multiple clubs, including being part of the West Germany side that won the Euros in 1980.


 He was also a two-time Bundesliga top scorer, and while he didn’t win the title at Koln, he won the German Cup before then winning the league title at Werder Bremen with another German Cup before winning the Bundesliga as a manager after retiring.

<h2>
 8. Stefan Kuntz – 179 goals
</h2>

 While Stefan Kuntz has the worst goals-to-game ratio on the list, he was a highly respected figure who spent almost the entirety of his career in Germany.


 The majority of his goals came at Lautern, but they were spread across his time at Bochum, Arminia Bielefeld, and
 
 KFC Uerdingen.
 


 He was awarded the German Footballer of the Year award in 1991 after doing the league and super cup double with Lautern.


 Looking at his best-ever campaigns, his highest tally for a league season was 22 in 34 games but he was consistently reaching double figures and wrote his name into the history books in doing so.

<h2>
 7. Ulf Kirsten – 181 goals
</h2>

 As well as featuring high on this list, Ulf Kirsten made history in his career by being the
 
 first player in history to reach a total of 100 caps playing with two different national teams (first for
 
 East Germany
 
 , then
 
 Reunified Germany
 
 ).
 


 
 In addition, he was a three-time Bundesliga top scorer, a German Cup winner, a Champions League final runner-up and the 1990 East Germany Player of the Year.
 


 All of his goals came for Bayer Leverkusen, and he stands far and away as their top club goalscorer in their history, ahead of Stefan Kiessling and Dimitar Berbatov.

<h2>
 6. Claudio Pizarro – 197 goals
</h2>

 Interestingly, Claudio Pizarro’s first and last goal came 21 years apart in the Bundesliga, which is a testament to his longevity. The Peru international played for a number of clubs, including
 Bayern Munich
 , Werder Bremen and Koln and enjoyed multiple spells for the former.


 Winning 16 trophies at Bayern and the German club with Bremen, he tasted plenty of silverware across his time but his legacy is tied to the many records he manages to still hold.


 Those include: having the most appearances in Bundesliga by a foreign player (490 appearances), netting the second most Bundesliga goals scored by a foreign scorer
 
 ,
 
 becoming the oldest player to score in Bundesliga history (40 years and 227 days) as well as being the oldest player to score a hat-trick in Bundesliga history (37 years and 151 days).


 
 READ MORE:
 The top 10 goalscorers in the history of Europe’s top five leagues: Lewandowski moves third…
 


 
 TRY A QUIZ:
 Can you name every Bayern Munich manager since 2000?
 

<h2>
 5. Manfred Burgsmuller – 213 goals
</h2>

 As we head into the exclusive 200-club, Manfred Burgsmuller enters the list here having netted for four separate German clubs – with Borussia Dortmund being his most successful spell.


 He netted 135 of his 213 goals for Dortmund and his goal stretched from 1969 to 1990 in a long and fruitful career.


 Despite netting the amount of goals he did, he was only capped by West Germany on three occasions and won just two trophies in total; both came at Werder Bremen, where he won the Bundesliga and German Super Cup.

<h2>
 4. Jupp Heynckes – 220 goals
</h2>

 While many modern fans will know Jupp Heynckes for his managerial exploits, he was a serious player in his prime, and he boasts the third-best goalscoring ratio on the list.


 He netted an impressive 195 goals in 283 games for Borussia Monchengladbach during a golden era for the club.


 That resulted in four league titles, a German Cup, a UEFA Cup triumph as well as reaching the final of the European Cup. He then helped West Germany secure the World Cup and European Championships, and he was a two-time league top scorer as well.

<h2>
 3. Klaus Fischer – 268 goals scored
</h2>

 Throughout his entire career, which saw him score numerous goals in Germany across four different teams, Klaus Fischer has undoubtedly become a celebrated icon in his homeland.


 Although his overall trophy collection included only two German Cups triumphs at distinct clubs (Schalke and FC Köln), he boasted an impressive track record, notably at Schalke, where he scored 182 goals in 295 appearances—a feat that still stands as a club record.


 Throughout his career, one notable aspect of his prowess was his skill at scoring bicycle kicks. His most celebrated moment occurred during a 4-1 win over Switzerland in an international game in 1977, where his spectacular goal won Goal of the Year honors from German TV audiences.


 Later, it was voted Goal of the Decade and Goal of the Century. Additionally, he scored a famous bicycle kick equalizer in extra time during the 1982 World Cup semi-final against France, a match that West Germany eventually won in a penalty shootout before they lost in the final.

<h2>
 2. Robert Lewandowski – 312 goals
</h2>

 In terms of the modern greats, Robert Lewandowski stands tall as one of the very best. One of the best poachers we’ve ever seen, the Polish forward had quick feet, good technical fundamentals and brilliant positioning and physicality.


 His ratio of 0.81 goals per game is incredible and it somehow still falls short to the great Gerd Muller. However, he was a 10-time league champion and won 25 trophies across spells at Bayern and Dortmund.


 A seven-time Bundesliga top scorer, he dominated the goalscoring charts in Europe outside of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and the Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2020 and 2021 whilst at Bayern and was robbed of a Ballon d’Or during those years as it was cancelled during the COVID-19 pandemic.


 He holds many records, but his 41 goals in a single campaign remains the highest in league history in Germany.


 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BWV99" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BWV99.jpg"/>


 
 READ:
 Comparing Robert Lewandowski’s stats after turning 30 with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo
 

<h2>
 1. Gerd Muller – 365 goals
</h2>

 Even though Lewandowski might have surpassed the legendary German striker, Gerd Muller still stands out as one of the foremost goalscorers in the annals of football history, full stop.


 All of his Bundesliga goals were scored with Bayern, giving him an astounding ratio of 0.85. He was the trailblazer during his tenure from 1965 to 1979, breaking numerous records throughout his time in German football.


 He stands out as an exceptional athlete, being among just nine players to claim victories in the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and Ballon d'Or.


 He was not only a recipient of the Ballon d'Or but also claimed the title of Bundesliga top scorer seven times. Additionally, his remarkable record includes having scored more goals than appearances made for West Germany. "
 Der Bomber
 is considered one of the genuine greats.

Top 10 All-Time Bundesliga Goalscorers: From Müller to Lewandowski

Unknown football clubs, football players, german, soccer, sports

German football has a vibrant history of goal-scorers dating back to the inception of the competition in 1963, including some of the very best we’ve seen. Since then, the competition has most…

Rick Steves' Europe: How Germany's Rothenburg Obliviously Preserves Its Medieval Magic

Unknown beautiful places, cities and towns, europe, german, travel destinations

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1zh27L" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1zh27L.jpg"/>

 When I was a young backpacker, I developed an affection for the charming village of Rothenburg located in the Franconian region of Germany. Back then, some farms inside its ancient ramparts were still keeping a handful of livestock. Nowadays, those barns have been converted into hotels, their former animal inhabitants replaced by throngs of visitors, and Rothenburg seems to be turning more and more into a medieval-themed attraction.


 However, Rothenburg remains Germany’s finest preserved walled town. Numerous visitors have sought out the hard-to-find "authentic Rothenburg." While there are several rivals (like Michelstadt, Miltenberg, Bamberg, Bad Windsheim, and Dinkelsbuhl), none can match up to this monarch of medieval German charm. Despite the throngs of tourists, inflated souvenir prices, and an almost indigestible local delicacy—a fried dough concoction known as a pastry specialty—Rothenburg retains its allure.
 Schneeball
 — "Snowball)," Rothenburg remains the top choice. Save yourself time and miles and be content with the victor.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AAMRWWQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAMRWWQ.jpg"/>

 Incidentally, there are multiple "Rothenburgs" scattered throughout Germany. Ensure you're headed for Rothenburg ob der Tauber (located beside the Tauber River), as travelers occasionally make the mistake of accidentally journeying to one of the less notable Rothenburgs instead.


 During the Middle Ages, when cities like Berlin and Munich were merely small settlements along the roads, Rothenburg stood as Germany’s second largest metropolis, boasting an impressive populace of around 6,000 residents. Nowadays, it has transformed into the nation’s most captivating medieval destination, attracting numerous visitors while still maintaining its allure. The streets here encapsulate a millennium worth of rich history beneath their cobblestones.


 To steer clear of the crowds that arrive early morning, I prefer staying overnight. With exceptions for occasional Saturdays and festival times when rooms can be scarce, securing accommodation isn’t difficult. After sundown, Rothenburg gives off an air of exclusivity as though it’s entirely yours. The silent cobblestone lanes under the silvery glow of the moon seem haunted by echoes from the battles of the Thirty Years' War resonating through battlements and bell towers.


 A walking tour truly enlivens the city walls. If you're interested in exploring Rothenburg's more somber past, consider joining one of the tours provided by the local tourism bureau, or use my Rick Steves Audio Europe app for guidance. However, for an entertaining and engaging experience filled with medieval charm lasting about an hour, opt for the Night Watchman’s Tour instead. As this character acts much like a medieval version of Jerry Seinfeld, cracking jokes as he lights his lantern and guides visitors through nightly patrols, sharing vivid stories from everyday life long ago.


 To get the finest vista of the town and its environs, ascend the Tower of the Town Hall. If you seek additional perspectives, take a leisurely walk along the ancient walls encircling the old part of town—a 1.5-mile trek that feels particularly historic either early in the morning or during twilight.


 The Rothenburg's Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum, which offers explanations entirely in English, houses an array of sinister punitive devices used throughout history. While some guests find themselves horrified by these exhibits, others hope for a souvenir shop nearby.


 St. Jacob's Church holds the single must-visit artistic marvel in town: an impressive 500-year-old altar created by Tilman Riemenschneider, often referred to as the Michelangelo of German woodworkers. To get a better look at this lifelike depiction of biblical narratives, ascend the steps located behind the organ. This work stands out as the finest example of wooden sculpture in all of Germany.


 Caution: Rothenburg ranks among Germany’s premier destinations for shoppers. You can buy your items here and have them shipped elsewhere; consider this approach to save time. The town offers an array of appealing products such as intricate prints, detailed woodcarvings, elegant wine glasses, festive Christmas decorations, and traditional beer mugs. (Alright, I’ll confess—I’ve adorned my Christmas tree with several trinkets purchased in Rothenburg.)


 The largest ornamental shop features a fantastic small museum dedicated to German Christmas traditions located upstairs. This distinctive exhibition goes beyond merely enticing visitors to make additional purchases; it offers insights into various aspects of holiday history. Here, you can explore antique ornaments from different eras, traditional Christmas-tree stands, miniature trees dispatched in boxes to World War I soldiers serving at the fronts, vintage advent calendars, and classic old-fashioned Christmas cards—all meticulously displayed with detailed explanations.


 To enjoy the sounds of birds and experience the scent associated with cattle, venture into the scenic Tauber Valley. Follow a path that descends from the picturesque castle gardens of Rothenburg down to the charmingly slender, six-century-old Toppler Castle, which served as the summertime residence for Mayor Toppler during the 15th century. Despite being referred to as a castle, its layout resembles more of a multi-storied treehouse. It was constructed by the mayor to reassure residents about living beyond the crowded confines within the fortified walls of the city.


 Starting from the mayor's residence, the path follows the course of the trout-rich Tauber River down to the tranquil hamlet of Detwang. This village predates Rothenburg and boasts a church featuring yet another striking Riemenschneider altar sculpture. For those wishing to explore more of the pastoral landscape—think ancient windmills, orchards heavy with apples, and free-ranging poultry—a bicycle rental offers an invigorating way to spend a leisurely few hours cycling through the riverside terrain.


 At night, I revel in finding myself solitary amidst Rothenburg. Perched inside a verdant alcove within the town’s rampart, I trace the ancient stone masonry with my fingers and muse over how generations of diligent horse-drawn carriages etched channels into the cobblestones as gusts from historical events smoothed out timber-framed facades overhead. Pretending to cock a fictional crossbow, I direct an arrow towards the shadowy woodland encircling this place. (My apologies, dear Mayor.) There remains something comforting about being ensconced behind these safeguarding barriers even today; here, visitors from contemporary times intersect with those who journeyed through medieval eras long past.


 (Rick Steves (
 www.ricksteves.com
 He authors European guidebooks, presents travel programs on public television and radio, and arranges European tours. In this column, Rick explores some of his beloved destinations from the last twenty years. You can send an email to Rick at
 rick@ricksteves.com
 and subscribe to his page on Facebook.)


 
 ©2025 Rick Steves. Released by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Rick Steves' Europe: How Germany's Rothenburg Obliviously Preserves Its Medieval Magic

Unknown beautiful places, cities and towns, europe, german, travel destinations

When I was a young backpacker, I developed an affection for the charming village of Rothenburg located in the Franconian region of Germany. Back then, some farms inside its ancient ramparts were sti…