Bernstadt a.d.Eigen can be explored through a range of themes: the market square and the Earth Axis Fountain shape a townscape characteristic of early German settlement. Church architecture and black dyeing offer further historical perspectives, alongside walks and distinctive places in the districts, as well as excursions to the Lusatian Mountains and the Zittau Mountains.
Market Square, Earth Axis Fountain and Local History Museum
Bernstadt’s market square and the Earth Axis Fountain are part of a townscape characteristic of early German settlement. The fountain also has a humorous connection: the Earth Axis Fountain is considered a joke fountain associated with a local story. Here, local history and a light-hearted tale come together in one place.
The route to the Local History Museum leads across Bernstadt’s market square, past the Earth Axis and towards the church. Parking is available directly at the museum or in the market square. The route also helps you find your bearings between the market square, the Earth Axis and the church.
Bernstadt’s summer festivals also draw on local traditions: the volunteer fire brigade humorously stages the symbolic greasing of the Earth Axis. The custom is repeated, but the specific festival programme may change. If you are planning to travel to Bernstadt for it, check the dates and programme in advance.
Church Architecture and Historic Crafts
St. Mary’s Church in Bernstadt has Romanesque roots dating back to the beginning of the 13th century. The parish church is single-nave and 35 metres long; its rectangular choir has a star vault from the 15th century. Bernstadt’s church architecture thus brings together early Romanesque roots and a late medieval vault.
Black dyeing is also part of the town’s historic industrial heritage: the dye works were inaugurated in 1370 and are considered among the oldest in Saxony. This means the historical story includes Bernstadt’s craft tradition as well as its churches.
Landscape Features and Places to Visit in the Districts
Knorrberg in the district of Dittersbach is a place to visit. Wacheberg in Kemnitz is a local landscape feature visible from afar. In Altbernsdorf, historic stone arch bridges span the PlieĂźnitz. These three features are quite distinct: a named place to visit, a visible landscape feature and historic bridge architecture.
The Steinbach Valley offers an opportunity for a walk. The Bernstadt outdoor swimming pool can be reached on foot via the Steinbach Valley. It has a large swimming pool and a shallow-water pool for younger children. This gives you a choice between a walk and a different focus for the day: swimming facilities. If you are planning to visit the pool, check its current status beforehand, as facility details may change with future renovations.
Bernstadt as a Base for Excursions
Bernstadt’s location makes excursions to the Lusatian Mountains and the Zittau Mountains possible. You can choose a holiday apartment based on what matters most for your trip.
Discover more destinations: Oppach, Mittelherwigsdorf, Schönbach, Olbersdorf, Groß Düben, Großschweidnitz, Markersdorf, Seifhennersdorf.
For the overview of the wider region: Görlitz.
