Kelterborn

Kelterborn is a municipality in the district of Wellenstadt, in the northern part of Nordmark. It lies on the Kelter River at the foothills of the Stern Mountains, about 30 kilometers north of the regional capital. The municipality covers 18.4 square kilometers and had a resident population of 4,900 in 2023. The town center preserves timber-framed houses and a Romanesque parish church.

The settlement dates from the 12th century and derives its name from the Kelter family. It developed as a market town along a medieval trade route and received town rights in the 14th century. A major fire in 1672 led to extensive rebuilding in stone, shaping the historic core.

Kelterborn is governed by a mayor and a twelve-member municipal council. The current mayor is Anja Röder (term 2023–2031). The population shows a slight aging trend, with a median age around 44 years.

The local economy centers on services, light manufacturing, and agriculture. The Kelter River supports a small hydro facility and river tourism. Kelterborn is linked by regional roads and a regular bus service; the nearest railway station lies about 12 kilometers away. The town has two primary schools and one secondary school.

Notable sites include the Romanesque St. Laurentius Church, the castle ruin Kelterburg, and a historic mill district. The annual Kelterfest harvest festival in late summer draws visitors from surrounding communities.

Notable residents include botanist Marta Kessler (born 1956) and writer Jonas Brenner (born 1972).