Location and landscape
Markdorf is a town in the Bodenseekreis district in Baden-Württemberg and lies between Friedrichshafen and Salem on the south-facing slope of the Gehrenberg. The municipal area belongs to the western young moraine landscape and to the historic Linzgau region. Elevations range from about 417 to 752 metres above sea level; near Fitzenweiler, the Gehrenberg reaches approximately 580 metres within the area of Markdorf.
Climate and viticulture
The town describes Markdorf as a climatically favoured area. Warm south-facing slopes between Bermatingen and Markdorf are considered suitable for vines. Wine, fruit and vegetable growing have been carried out in the region for centuries.
In the wine-growing region Baden, Markdorf belongs to the Lake Constance area. Within the municipal area there are the legally regulated single vineyard sites Burgstall and Sängerhalde.
Historical development
Markdorf was first mentioned in a document in 817, was founded as a town around 1250, and has been recorded as an enclosed, fortified town since 1268. In the 15th and 16th centuries, viticulture, the wine trade and the associated tax revenues formed a basis for prosperity.
On the south-facing slope of the Gehrenberg, vines were grown in the Middle Ages and in the early modern period. The vineyards belonged to citizens, noble families, representatives of the churches, hospitals and monasteries in the surrounding area. Among the historic wineries were cellars, wine presses, storehouses and equipment for the cultivation of the vineyards.
Geological setting
The landscape of Markdorf forms part of the glacially shaped young moraine hilly landscape. The soils are generally classified in the landscape plan as favourable for agricultural production.
