Altenmedingen brings together two clearly distinct historical perspectives: Haaßel is home to Neolithic megalithic tombs, while St. Mauritius showcases several building phases, from fieldstone to brick. The surrounding area is defined by extensive fields and the scenic course of the Ilmenau. The “Auf Zeitreise” (“Journey Through Time”) cycling route also passes through the village. This makes it possible to enjoy history, church architecture and outdoor activity as separate highlights of a stay.

The Royal Tombs and Altenmedingen’s History

The royal tombs in Haaßel are a group of three surviving megalithic tombs from the Neolithic Funnel Beaker culture. They originally belonged to a necropolis containing at least 24 tombs. The three surviving monuments therefore represent a much larger original burial complex. The royal tombs are open to the public with unrestricted access.

Altenmedingen itself also has a medieval historical reference point: it was first mentioned in a document dating to around 1162. The village’s history thus brings together two very different periods—the prehistoric tombs in Haaßel and the documented medieval history of the municipality.

St. Mauritius: Building Phases and Visiting

St. Mauritius is dated to around 1200. The original rectangular nave was built of fieldstone; a brick chancel was added in the 14th century. A neo-Romanesque tower stands on the west side. The church is also known for its impressive 14th-century altarpiece. The change from fieldstone to brick makes it easy to compare the different parts of the building and when they were constructed.

Regular concerts by brass ensembles and parish events are held in the church. Visits are possible during services and events, or by prior arrangement. If you have a particular date in mind, it is best to arrange your visit in advance.

Fields, the Ilmenau and the Cycling Route

The area around Altenmedingen is characterized by extensive fields, while the scenic course of the Ilmenau is another part of its character. The “Auf Zeitreise” (“Journey Through Time”) cycling route offers another way to experience the village: it passes through Altenmedingen and highlights half-timbered buildings and St. Mauritius in the village landscape. The route thus connects two different ways of seeing the village, without making church architecture its only focus.

There is one specific option for shortening the route: near Altenmedingen, it can be shortened by around 12 kilometres. When planning the ride, you can factor this approximate difference into your route choice. The fields, the course of the Ilmenau and the village sights along the route each offer different ways to shape your stay.

Choose Accommodation and Explore the Wider Destination

Altenmedingen offers a wide choice of places to eat and stay. For specific travel dates, it is best to check availability directly, as individual businesses may change.

Other cultural highlights await in the wider Uelzen travel destination. Uelzen’s Hundertwasser railway station was created as a project for Expo 2000 in Hanover and is among the last works by Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. The Ebstorf World Map in Ebstorf Abbey offers a different historical perspective: it was probably created around 1300, measures approximately 13 square metres and is considered the largest known medieval world map.

Discover more destinations: Uelzen, Bad Bodenteich, Himbergen, Wriedel, Suhlendorf, Bad Bevensen, Suderburg, Emmendorf.

Back to the main travel overview: Uelzen.