It’s places like Bischofswerda in Saxony that will enchant and reward anyone willing to come off the well-beaten paths. It is a cute place that’s close to the border of Poland and the Czech Republic, and only about 50 km or 31 miles east of historic Dresden.
You won’t find an overabundance of sightseeing, but there is enough to keep you busy for at least a day or so. However, there are some lovely vacation homes and little quaint hotels if you need overnight accommodations.
Book those rooms early if you visit in Mid-June for the Schiebocker Tage, a 3 day festival with plenty of musical concerts, a huge party over at the Marketplace, and a finale of fireworks.
Others might argue that the Saxonian Harvest Celebration is larger. Some 50,000 partygoers converge in Bischofswerda for the food (plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables), the dancing, or to listen to the choir singing its praises.
You don’t have to wait for a Saxon style festival to enjoy Bischofswerda, though. Its City Hall has stood in the center of the marketplace since 1286, but sadly it doesn’t look like its medieval original anymore. A fire in the 19th century wiped out many of the town’s old buildings and were rebuilt in the popular architecture of the time.
Afterwards, there are two churches worth a visit. Christ Church, a beauty of 19th century artwork, does still have its original Gothic columns. While St. Benno’s is a jewel of the early 20th century, as it was built in the very popular Art Deco style that was prevalent in the 1920’s.
OK, enough of the old building — it’s time to get outside to enjoy the great Saxon air. When you wander around Bischofswerda, look for the Memorial Stones dedicated to Nazi Resistance fighters and those who lost their lives on “death marches” in the turbulent years of the 1930’s and ’40’s.
The kids will more than appreciate a visit over to the Tierpark, instead. Considered to be the smallest zoo in all of Saxony, you’ll find bear and other native animals to Germany all in one place.
Visitors will no doubt love all this when they’re here; as well as strolling along cobblestone lanes, tree-lined avenues, or just grabbing a bite to eat at an outdoor vendor or outside cafe. No matter how long you choose to stay.
