Heckelberg and Brunow tell different village stories: Heckelberg was laid out as a cross-shaped village green settlement, while the original village green layout of Brunow is now barely recognisable. Those interested in rural settlement patterns and how they change will therefore find more here than just a shared place name. The village church in Heckelberg is one of the sights in the municipality of Heckelberg-Brunow; in Brunow, the square, village ponds and remains of the estate shape the village as it is today.
Heckelberg and Brunow: two local histories
Heckelberg was first mentioned in a document in 1340 and was laid out as a cross-shaped village green settlement. Brunow appears in a document for the first time seven years later, in 1347—then under the name “Brunowe”. The settlement was originally laid out around a village green. However, the later creation of the manor estate means that this layout is now barely recognisable. The two local histories thus offer different perspectives: in Heckelberg, the traditional settlement pattern is part of the historical picture, while in Brunow it is particularly clear how later development changed the original layout.
Brunow’s present-day village landscape can also be described in concrete terms: the square by the church, with its open space, village ponds and remains of the estate, shapes the village. If you are visiting with an interest in village history, it is worth considering this present-day scene alongside the history of the village green settlement. In Heckelberg, meanwhile, the village church is a cultural point of interest in its own right, as one of the municipality’s sights. Its designation as a sight does not indicate current opening hours or access arrangements.
Culture in the wider destination of Märkisch-Oderland
Beyond Heckelberg-Brunow, the wider destination of Märkisch-Oderland offers other cultural attractions. These include castles and manor houses, well-preserved half-timbered houses in historic town centres and museums. One example is the Brecht-Weigel House in Buckow: it has been a museum since 1977. Its year-round programme includes readings, concerts, talks, discussions, films, exhibitions and special guided tours; individual offerings vary. This offers a different way to experience culture from the village and settlement history of Heckelberg and Brunow.
The old settler village of Neulietzegöricke in the Oderbruch is another example from Märkisch-Oderland. As a district of the municipality of Neulewin, it is entirely protected as a historic monument. Those with a stronger interest in commemorative culture can visit the Seelow Heights Memorial and Museum, which features a multimedia exhibition on the events of the war, its consequences and the use of the memorial site. The exhibition is in German and English. The outdoor grounds are freely accessible regardless of opening hours; check local conditions before your visit.
Another regional example of a living tradition is the Bergfest in the mining community of RĂĽdersdorf bei Berlin. Since the mining custom was revived, it has been held every year on the first weekend in July. The programme and exact dates vary from year to year, so it is advisable to check the event details before planning your visit.
Nature and activity: a range of options
For excursions in Märkische Schweiz, there are two routes of different lengths to choose from: the Natura Trail is 17 kilometres long, while the certified Märkische Schweiz Nature Park Route is just under 21 kilometres. The distances provide a concrete basis for comparison when planning; on their own, they say nothing about walking time or difficulty. Check local trail conditions before setting out.
Cycling is also an option in the wider destination of Märkisch-Oderland: bike tours along the Oder-Neiße Cycle Route are possible. The main route of the Oderbruchbahn Cycle Route connects Fürstenwalde/Spree, or alternatively Müncheberg, with Wriezen. Alongside the quiet landscape of the Oderbruch, it offers a glimpse of the early 20th century and the history of railway transport. The regional routes therefore differ not only in length but also in their thematic focus.
Another way to get active is the Sparkassen Ski Arena in Bad Freienwalde. The ski jumps there can be used in summer and winter. Special mats and weather-independent approach tracks make year-round ski jumping possible; current access arrangements may vary and should be checked before your visit.
For trip planning, it helps to consider the different levels separately: the village church, settlement patterns and Brunow’s present-day village landscape are part of Heckelberg-Brunow’s local character. Museums, events and routes are examples from the wider destination of Märkisch-Oderland, not features of the individual districts.
Discover more destinations: Waldsieversdorf, Märkische Höhe, Wriezen, Alt Tucheband, Wulkow Bei Booßen, Bliesdorf, Fichtenhöhe, Hennickendorf.
View the wider travel overview: Märkisch-Oderland.
