Birkenau (Odenwald)

Birkenau is a municipality in the Odenwaldkreis district in Hesse, Germany. It is located in the Odenwald mountains, approximately 15 km northeast of Weinheim. The municipality is primarily known for its scenic landscapes, hiking trails, and its rural, village-like character.

The name Birkenau is derived from the German word "Birke," meaning birch tree, indicating that the area was once heavily forested with birch trees.

Birkenau consists of several smaller villages and hamlets, including Birkenau (the main village), Löhrbach, Nieder-Liebersbach, Reisen, and Hornbach. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. There are also a number of small businesses and craft enterprises located within the municipality.

Historically, Birkenau has been part of the Kurpfalz (Electorate of the Palatinate) and later Hesse. The municipality has a rich history reflected in its traditional architecture and local customs.