Dietzhölztal

Dietzhölztal is a municipality in the Rhein-Lahn-Kreis (district) of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Located in the Westerwald region, it lies along the Dietz River, which flows into the Lahn. The town is situated approximately 15 kilometers northeast of Limburg an der Lahn and 30 kilometers southwest of Wiesbaden.

The history of Dietzhölztal dates back to the Middle Ages, with its name derived from the Dietz River and the surrounding forest (Hölz). The area was historically part of the County of Nassau and later became part of Prussia in the 19th century. After World War II, it was incorporated into the newly formed state of Rhineland-Palatinate.

The municipality consists of several villages and hamlets, including Dietz, Dietzhölz, and Oberneis. Dietz, the largest and administrative center, is known for its well-preserved medieval old town with a historic market square, the *Alter Markt*, and the 13th-century St. Peter’s Church. The town also hosts an annual medieval festival, attracting visitors with traditional crafts, music, and reenactments.

Agriculture and forestry have long been the primary industries in the region, though tourism has gained importance in recent years. The area offers scenic hiking trails, including sections of the *Westerwaldsteig* long-distance path, and access to the *Lahn-Taunus Nature Park*. The Dietz Dam (*Dietzer Staustufe*) on the Lahn provides opportunities for water sports and fishing.

Dietzhölztal is well-connected by road, with the A3 motorway nearby, and offers good access to public transportation via regional train lines. The municipality is known for its rural charm, historic architecture, and proximity to larger urban centers like Frankfurt am Main, which is roughly 60 kilometers to the northeast.