There seems to be a reoccurring theme when thinking and visiting small towns in Germany; in that there are countless old churches in each village. There’s a reason for that and in the case of Ilsede it’s no different.
The “Church” was once (and in some cases still is) a huge part of daily life. So, it’s no stretch of the imagination to think that Ilsede would have at least one. Well, it’s got three!
St. Pancratii is the youngest of them all, built only in the 19th century. As far as churches go, it’s not the most stunning but it’s lovely nonetheless.
The Alte Kapelle (Old Chapel) is the oldest of the three (who would’ve guessed…); not looking too different from when it was originally built back in the 15th century. This tiny chapel even managed to survive the Thirty Years’ War without too much damage.
St. Urban’s is only a century younger than the Alte Kapelle, but there’s something special about this place. Maybe it’s the design, maybe it’s the artwork, maybe it’s a combination of the whole place — either way, don’t skip a visit here.
Don’t skip a visit to the old Bronze Age grave hills either; they date from over three thousand years ago. Lower Saxony’s so pretty, it’s no wonder people have lived here for over three millenia.
Oh, before you go thinking that Ilsede is all old churches and ancient graves, it can throw a good party, too. The Ilseder Löwenfest (Lion Celebration) also goes by the Ilseder Weinfest (Wine Celebration) — that says a lot, doesn’t it?. There’s also a fantastic Folk Festival on the 2nd weekend in June and another fun party on the 1st Sunday in August.
You see, Ilsede is more than just its three churches and the mining town it once was. It’s fun, it’s hip, and you’ll have a good time no matter what.
