When I first thought of Kirchberg in the Ore Mountains of Saxony I got a little perturbed. Why, you ask? Well, I thought about how these fantastic little towns somehow always seem to get passed over for the bigger cities. Like Zwickau, that’s only about 11km away.
Then, I thought, no. I won’t be upset. If not too many people know about places like Kirchberg, then we folks here at MyGermanCity.com get it all to ourselves. I guess it’s a matter of perspective, right? ;-)
Kirchberg’s landscape is surrounded by seven hills, making for a great panoramic shot on that digital camera of yours. And it’s not just what’s above that’s interesting, this was a mining town for centuries. So, we need to consider what’s underneath as well.
The Mine is open to visitors on specific days, the Altstadtfest (October), the Borbergfest (early June), and the Oldtimertreffen (June). Otherwise, if you’re not here on these days call ahead to prearrange a tour of this 17th century mine.
Back on the sunlit side of Kirchberg, come see a few of the town’s churches. St. Margareth is both a late Gothic and Baroque chapel, St. Marien Church was built in the 15th century (and still standing strong), and St. Katharinen has the oldest bells in all of Saxony.
There’s also a Luther Memorial, conveniently located on the Lutherplatz. Plus, there’s the King Albert Tower, that was built in 1848. I can’t forget to mention (like I almost just did) the DDR-Museum (Torstr. 9), which is an abbreviated version of saying the Museum of the German Democratic Republic — back from the days when this area was part of it.
And if you don’t mind, I’d like to go back to Kirchberg’s festivals (and other cultural events) for a minute. Come join Kirchbergers for the Classic Car Show (June), the Spring & Christmas Concerts, and the Winter Festival (February).
I don’t know if Kirchberg’s weekly market (Tuesdays, 8am-5pm from mid-January to mid-December) counts as a cultural event or not. But, one thing’s for sure… you’ll get a chance to buy some beautifully made lace AND try some yummy street food. And since Kirchberg’s not so crowded, there’s more for us to eat! :-)
