Right next to the border of Saxony-Anhalt lies the Saxon town of Pegau, once famous for the medieval Kloster Pegau. The 12th century monastery might be long gone, but the other architectural wonders that await you here can keep you exceptionally busy.
No wonder it’s known as the “Kleinstadt mit Herz und Historie,” or Small Town with Heart and History.
As for that monastery, when Kloster Pegau was demolished in 1556, some parts of it were deemed worthy enough to keep. The cenotaph (like a memorial) of a Count was then brought over to the Church of St. Laurentius. This church is a wonder of art itself, originally a Romanesque design it had a Gothic overhaul — and has the most ornately decorated alter I’ve seen in a long time.
The town of Pegau has even seen its fair share of famous visitors — folks like the pint-sized Napoleon, Tzar Alexander I, and Austrian Emperor Franz I were here.
One thing I got on those guys, I get to enjoy Pegau with all the modern day conveniences. They had to travel by horse, I get the choice of riding in a car, or a number of bus routes to get around.
Whatever mode of transportation you choose to get yourself around, be sure you swing by such amazing places like the City Museum — where a guided tour for only a couple Euro will give you all kinds of tidbits of history
And be sure you take plenty of pictures of the local Town Hall, its other pretty churches (like St. Johanniskirche and St. Leonhardi), and the old Parsonage building.
For me, Pegau’s Schloss Wiederau is the best. Its ceiling painting of ladies and angels is nothing short of sheer genius — a true masterpiece. Then again, like I expected less from a Baroque castle? ;-)
While I could stare at the ceiling all day, there’s plenty enough to do outside in Pegau. I loved the old tower, which is still attached to the Stadtmauer (defense wall) — but I loved the Alpaca Garden, too.
The kids (and the kids at heart) will love feeding the animals. Probably not a good idea to pet the animals at the nearby Game Reserve Gatzen, though.
Pegau is even on the Elster Bike Path, giving you even more opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna. There are plenty of other cycling and hiking routes — or just walk along the banks of the Weiße Elster if you want. Perhaps a canoe ride down the river?
Although, I’d say to save that for another day when you’re here for one of the local festivals. The Altstadtfest is always a goodie, held every year in September. The Christmas Market is charming enough in December, and the Village Festival in June is fun for the whole family.
Hmm, I’d say the town of Pegau should be known as the Small City of Heart, History, and a Helluva Good Time. Do you think they’d go for it? ;-)
