Lower Saxony is a most curious place. Especially when you’ve got places like Kreiensen; a small town near the Harz Mountains that’s totally enveloped by the bigger towns of Einbeck, Bad Gandersheim, and Northeim.
They are some big shoes to fill, aren’t they?
The funny thing is, Kreisensen doesn’t try to fill anyone’s shoes. It’s just happy and content to be just as it is. What is it?
Well, for starters, it’s a town that really likes to party. Not the whole lampshade on your head kind of party (so un-German), but it’s still a good time to be had by all at the obligatory Christmas Market on the second weekend of Advent. And the Nicholas Market, held right beforehand.
The Dance Into May is a festive time with lots of music and, of course, beer. It’s the Castle Festival that’s one of the biggest events — and any place that’s got a castle fest has to have a castle, right?
Welcome to Burg Greene, a castle that’s been right on this very spot since 1308.
Speaking of “green,” the village of Greene is over a thousand years old; and its Church of St. Martin has the most amazing medieval frescoes from the 15th century — when the church was built.
Yikes! I got this far without telling you about the Burgturm. The former castle tower stands 25 meters, and if you’re here visiting between April and October you’ll be treated to some outstanding Lower Saxon views.
You don’t go up to see the wonder of the Railway Viaduct, you go down. I know, I’m not making any sense — but hear me out…
Unlike the Burgturm, where you gotta climb up to see what makes it so amazing, the Railway Viaduct is a true feat of German engineering — and it’s best seen from street level looking up. Only then can you truly appreciate this modern marvel.
Stay there if you must, but I’m going out into the Harz Mountains — there’s a hiking trail with my name on. Oh, you’re going to take on out in the surrounding Solling Mountains? Great, let’s meet up again somewhere else when we’re done in Kreiensen. ;-)
