Wetterau

Wetterau is a natural region in Hesse, Germany, located northeast of Frankfurt am Main. It is part of the larger Rhine-Main region and is characterized by its fertile loess soils, making it a significant agricultural area. The region is drained by the Wetter River, which gives it its name. Historically, Wetterau has been a rich agricultural landscape, known for its grain and vegetable production.

Geographically, Wetterau is a basin surrounded by low mountain ranges. To the west lie the Taunus foothills, to the north the Vogelsberg, and to the east the Usinger Becken. The elevation varies, with lower areas around the Wetter River and higher elevations towards the surrounding uplands. The climate is generally temperate, with mild winters and warm summers, conducive to its agricultural productivity.

Administratively, the Wetterau region largely corresponds to the Wetteraukreis district. This district encompasses numerous towns and villages, with Friedberg and Bad Nauheim being among the larger population centers. The area benefits from its proximity to Frankfurt, serving as a residential and commuting area for many. The Wetterau has a long history of settlement, with evidence of prehistoric human activity. Roman settlements and later medieval fortifications are found throughout the region, reflecting its strategic importance and fertile lands. Today, it remains a vital agricultural and residential area within the Rhine-Main metropolitan region.