Taubenheim/Spree can be explored through a range of different highlights: sundials feature along a circular trail, church and architectural history lend historical depth to the townscape, and paths lead into the countryside and to sites of interest. When planning your visit, it is worth deciding first whether you want to focus on a themed route through the town, historic places, or nature and scenic views.
Sundials and the Townscape
An easy, 6.29 km circular trail leads to 53 historic and modern sundials on house walls, gables and in gardens. You can explore Taubenheim/Spree independently on this circular trail as a village of sundials, or take part in a guided tour by prior arrangement. The separate sundial trail runs through the town and showcases 36 different sundials in gardens and on house walls and gables.
Another distinctive feature of the townscape is the “Max Panitz” residential and commercial building. This half-timbered house with surrounding framework is in the centre of Taubenheim and shapes the townscape. Unlike the circular trail, which brings together many sundials at different locations, this route focuses on a single, specifically named building. The focus thus shifts from a recurring motif to a particular architectural type in the town centre.
Church and Architectural History
The Taubenheim hall church, which was fully extended to the west, was consecrated on 19 November 1775 after 18 years of construction. The Reformation marks a much earlier chapter: in 1524, together with the church in Oppach, it was among the first rural Lutheran congregations in the whole of Upper Lusatia to adopt the Reformation and introduce communion in both kinds. Two distinct historical periods are therefore represented side by side: the early Reformation in the region and the later consecration after a lengthy construction period.
Hiking Trails and Landscape
The Taubenberg nature trail passes the Schalenbruch. The disused quarry is filled with water, surrounded by steep rock faces and has resting places. Hiking trails also cross the Taubenberg, which at 455.9 m is the highest elevation in the village of Taubenheim. Schalenbruch is a specific landscape destination along the way, while the Taubenberg connects the route to Taubenheim’s highest elevation.
Heritage Trail Tour 2 explores the northern part of Taubenheim and its monuments. A detour leads to the Wachtberg, designated a protected natural area and offering wide-ranging views over Taubenheim. The trails have different focuses: the sundial circular trail centres on a recurring motif, while Tour 2 takes in monuments in northern Taubenheim and the Wachtberg.
Other Places to Visit
Other destinations in Taubenheim include the solar-heated Erlebnisbad WeiĂźbachtal outdoor swimming pool. There is also an open-air exhibition of agricultural machinery, with a recreational area near the railway station. These attractions offer a different focus from sundials, local history and hiking trails: the swimming pool and exhibition provide additional options when planning your stay.
For the broader travel overview: Sohland an der Spree.
