The Leopoldstal in the Eggegebirge in Germany has a history that spans many centuries.

A walk through the protected forests reveals rocks and inscriptions dating back to ancient times.

The rockface below has writing and symbols that were worked into the stone in the mid 1500’s.

In the evening the sun skims across the surface of the rocks, bringing out it’s textures and colours.

The rather theatrical lighting lasts a few brief minutes before the rocks disappear into the darkness once again.

Churches feature prominently in the German landscape.

Although Germany is a secular country the church maintains significant influence over peoples lives in the rural areas.

Nearly every village has at least one church, and often two of differing denominations.

Many Germans still pay a church tax and thereby help to keep the traditions and power of the church alive.