Nestling in the heart of the Mulde valley, the attractive town of Grimma has a history going back more than a thousand years. Just half an hour pleasant drive southeast of Leipzig, you’ll experience the relaxing, spacious feel of the old town center.
As you walk across the immaculate town square, dominated by the impressive 15th Century Town Hall, it has a unique timeless quality about it.
You’ll soon appreciate that this is a town with much of it’s past still easily seen, but remember much more is long since gone.
The famous Fürstenschule, for example, was built in 1550 on a site previously used as an Augustinian monastery. Other monastic buildings have survived longer. The Mühlental welcomes visitors to the riverside site, but the Klosterruine Nimbschen — now sadly just a shell — will make a more interesting visit for you.
A nun by the name of Marie Katherina von Bora lived here for a while in the early 1500’s, before fleeing to Wittenberg and marrying Martin Luther. He also came to Grimma on several occasions, to preach in the huge monastery church. This has recently been fully restored, and you really should make sure you include it in your itinerary.
Another place you shouldn’t miss is the Gate Bridge and Castle. The Neo-Renaissance towers give commanding views over the river, and the ill-fated bridge that has suffered from floods and dynamite in the last century. The Electors of Saxony were known to have used the Grimma castle for many years, highlighting the importance of this town.
Give yourself time to explore the surrounding area too though. Short trips on the Mulde River are a favorite excursion, and give you ample opportunity to take in some of the varied wildlife.
For a panoramic view of the area, head to the Jutta Park, where amid the ancient forest you’ll find an observation tower.
If you’re feeling fit, then try the contemporary Path of Stones. This 8 km (5 mile) walk is marked and enhanced with all things stone. From the 28 “rock stations” along the route, to the seats, sculptures, and even the signposts, everything is in a modern white stone.
Maybe it’s just to show that not everything in Grimma revolves around history! ;-)
