Brothers Revive Ancient Grains in Germany’s Harsh Rhön Hills

In a land where farming seems impossible, Fabian and Hilmar Reder prove tradition can flourish. Their handmade bread from forgotten grains is winning over modern palates.

, and Administrator

2025 December 9 . 4:07 PM

1 min read

It is an agriculture land many plants are plotted into the ground and in front of of the field... — It is an agriculture land many plants are plotted into the ground and in front of of the field there is a machine, it is spelling the water on the crops and behind the machine there are huge trees and behind the trees there are other types of crops.

Brothers Revive Ancient Grains in Germany’s Harsh Rhön Hills

In the rugged Rhön hills, brothers Fabian and Hilmar Reder grow ancient grains as a side project. Their small farm produces rare varieties like Emmer, Spelt, and Einkorn—grains with taller stalks than modern types. From these, they bake and sell organic whole-grain bread directly to customers.

The Reders’ farm sits in a difficult landscape. Harsh weather, poor soil, and scattered plots make crop-growing a challenge. Despite this, they cultivate primitive grains, including farm rye, alongside their main jobs.

The Reders’ part-time operation connects old farming methods with modern demand. Their bread, baked from ancient grains, reaches buyers without middlemen. The project thrives despite the Rhön hills’ tough conditions.