a cairn in the Allgäu by Walter G. Allgöwer

About "a cairn in the Allgäu"

by Walter G. Allgöwer

About the artwork

In the heart of the idyllic Oytal valley, near Oberstdorf in the Allgäu region of Bavaria, a simple cairn stands proudly on the banks of the Oybach stream. The Oy Valley, known for its unspoilt nature and picturesque landscapes, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, where the clear waters of the Oybach gurgle over the stones, someone has created a small work of art from the flat, smooth stones of the stream bed.
The cairn, consisting of carefully stacked stones, symbolises the harmonious connection between man and nature. Each stone, whether large or small, has been carefully selected and placed to create a fragile balance. This structure defies wind and weather, a silent witness to time that requires patience and skill. It reminds hikers and visitors to pause and appreciate the simple beauty of the surroundings.
The majestic Allgäu Alps tower in the background, their peaks often rising into the deep blue sky or shrouded in mystical mist. The air is filled with the scent of mountain meadows and the gentle buzzing of insects. A walk along the Oybach stream, past this modest cairn, offers not only a visual delight but also a meditative experience. It invites you to reflect on the small wonders of life and savour the moment of silence and simplicity.
The cairn in Oytal is more than just a collection of stones; it is a symbol of balance, perseverance and the quiet beauty that lies hidden in the most inconspicuous things.