Kirchsahr combines a long church history with traces of mining and the network of trails in the Sahrbach Valley. This gives you a choice of different focuses for your trip: you can explore art-historical details, learn about mining history or discover the landscape on hiking trails.
Church and Art History
The small stone church in Kirchsahr was rebuilt around 1730. Its foundations date back to around 1100; a church is believed to have existed by around 1105. The first definite documentary mention, however, dates from 1302. These details distinguish between early structural evidence, the presumed existence of a church and a later confirmed written record.
The Church of St. Martin houses a Late Gothic triptych attributed to the Cologne School and dated to around 1400–1408. The central panel depicts the Crucifixion; 18 additional panels show scenes from the life and Passion of Christ. The church also houses a rare Turkish Madonna. The altarpiece was originally commissioned by the collegiate church in Bad Münstereifel and has been on display in the church since 1782. Its attribution, subject matter and long presence in the church offer different ways to explore the art history of the church interior.
Mining History and the Gretel Tunnel
Mining remained a local tradition well into the 20th century. Many former mine tunnels serve as habitats for bats and other animals; their use by animals can vary seasonally. The old tunnels are therefore part of both the history of ore mining and the habitats of today’s wildlife.
At the Gretel Tunnel, maps show the locations of old mine tunnels and the ores mined in Kirchsahr. The entrance is designed so you can look inside the tunnel. Restored mine carts stand in front of it. If the maps are important to your visit, check in advance whether they are on display, as facilities may change.
Another mining-related stop is the Old Tunnel in Binzenbach. It lies right on the Sahrbach Trail and extends about 30 metres into the mountain. Check the access conditions on site; its location by the trail alone does not indicate under what conditions a visit is possible.
Hiking Trails and Scenery in the Sahrbach Valley
The Sahrbach Valley offers views across the Eifel heights and a close look at the changing nature of the valley and its surrounding uplands. Highlights along the Sahrbach Trail include the protected wet meadow. Conditions at this natural landmark can vary depending on the season. The Gottfried Kinkel Trail and the Hasenweg near Krälingen also offer far-reaching views.
The 8.6-kilometre Sahrbach Trail is the main route in the Sahrbach Valley hiking area. The hiking area encompasses a network of around 80 kilometres, stretching from Kreuzberg to the state border near Kirchsahr. In the Sahrbach Valley, 19 hiking trails also branch off from three main routes. These figures describe different scales: one clearly defined main route and a much larger network offering a variety of hikes.
Twelve information boards along the Sahrbach Trail explain the flora and fauna, as well as the history, crafts and culture of the Sahrbach Valley. The trail thus connects the landscape with topics that also shape local history. Conditions on individual routes may change; check the latest trail information before setting out.
Another Themed Trail Starting in Binzenbach
The Galaxies Trail leads on foot from Binzenbach to the Max Planck Society’s radio telescope in about 40 minutes. The telescope has a diameter of 100 metres and was built between 1968 and 1971. Information boards along the Galaxies Trail cover the universe, giving the route its own scientific focus. The walking time is approximate and depends on conditions and trail status. So check the current route before planning your visit; signage may also change.
For planning your trip, the Sahrbach Trail offers a main route with a specific length, while the Sahrbach Valley’s network provides more options. The church, Gretel Tunnel and hiking trails each offer a different focus: art history, mining and nature. You can choose what to focus on based on which of these topics matters most to you.
Discover more destinations: Binzenbach, Hönningen, Dernau, Ahrbrück, Kesseling, Lind, Heckenbach, Rech
Go to the main travel overview: Altenahr.
