Lößnitz is worth its weight in salt. Oh, I know that’s not a literal truth but, Lößnitz was on the ever important Salt Route (Salzstraße) for years.
Today we’re overflowing with the crystalline white stuff and therefore don’t give it the respect it deserves. Residents of medieval Lößnitz did and the town holds a Salzmarkt (Salt Market) on the third weekend of June every year to pay proper homage. It’s not like its a somber occasion, quite the contrary. Come party, eat, and drink yourself merry!
Same can be said for the annual Dorffest (Village Festival), the Naturmarkt in September (want me to translate that one? — c’mon!), and the Christmas Market that’s held during Advent. Oh heck, you’ll also have a grand time during Lößnitz’s weekly market on Thursdays.
That sure is a whole lot of partying for a farming village that was founded by some Counts back in the 12th century on the western side of the Ore Mountains. Oh, the Ore Mountains is a good clue that Lößnitz was a big mining town, located about 27 km southwest of Chemnitz.
If you’re off thinking that the best of Lößnitz are some festivals and stuff that’s underground, you’d be sadly mistaken. The town has an Old Quarter with parts of the old fortification wall still remaining. Many come to see the old Rösselturm, one of the old military towers; and the Town Hall (b. 1601).
While visiting the ground level of Lößnitz, expect everyday to hear the bells and carillon of St. Johannis Church, located near the Marktplatz. It’s one of the largest Neo-classical churches in the entire Ore Mountains.
The choice is yours, however, if you want to get around Lößnitz by foot or bicycle. If heading out by bicycle, there are a good number of trails that lead around the gorgeous countryside. You’ll find them to be quiet, idyllic, and perfect for escaping the stress of city life.
If that isn’t worth anyone’s weight in salt, I don’t know what is… ;-)
