It’s been said that the town of Dohna is the second oldest town in all of Saxony, dating back to the 16th century B.C. I don’t really know if its true — but considering Germany’s penchant for sticking to details, I’m pretty sure that’s probably correct.
Whether it is, or isn’t, it doesn’t change the fact that present-day Dohna is a pretty wonderful town.
It used to be a real flurry of activity back in the Middle Ages when it sat in the middle of some trade routes like the Bohemian Road. It still is a flurry of activity, of a different kind now — hikers and bikers looking to enjoy the scenery of the Müglitztal, following all the Müglitz River (a tributary of the Elbe, if you’re curious). Someone once said it was “the most beautiful valley in Saxony,” but since it was a Saxon King — I think he was a bit jaded. ;-)
Nah, I could see why someone would say that — especially around areas like the villages of Borthen, which is known for its fruit growing. Delicious strawberries, cherries, plums, and pears await. And it seems like just the right place for the Apple Blossom Festival every May, doesn’t it?
There are eleven other villages to Dohna, each with their own things to see and do. History lovers might want to head to Röhrsdorf, a village that shares its name with an 18th century castle. There’s also a church here that goes all the way back to 1500 — but the most famous church in Dohna is the Church of St. Mary Dohna, built in 1489.
And the Burg Dohna is the most famous castle in the region. With good reason, it’s been around since 950 A.D. Wait, that makes it sound like the castle’s still intact — but in reality only its wall remains of the castle that Otto I built.
A lot of Dohna’s history can be learned at the Local History Museum, housed in the Alte Apotheke (Old Pharmacy), a building historical in itself — built in 1690.
You know, that Saxon King was on to something. The Müglitztal really is a beautiful part of Saxony (Saxon Switzerland, to be more exact), but most likely because of places like Dohna.
