Eisen: Local History, Bunkers and Golf

Geographic Setting and the Town’s Name

Eisen lies where the Eisbach flows into the Söterbach. This confluence is a specific geographic reference point for the town. The name also recalls ore discoveries in the 14th and 15th centuries. Eisen was first mentioned in a document in 1334. These details serve different purposes: the centuries indicate when the ore was found, while 1334 marks the first written mention. The confluence locates Eisen geographically; the dates shed light on two aspects of its local history.

Local History in Several Stages

Settlement did not develop without interruption. Eisen was completely deserted in the 17th century, before Velten Feist from Nohfelden made the town habitable again in 1650. This is a different chapter of local history from the first documentary mention in 1334: the earlier date marks the first written record, while 1650 marks a later turning point, when the town was made habitable again. Eisen also belonged to the County of Sponheim. This historic affiliation adds a territorial dimension to the settlement history.

Monuments and Mining History

Around Eisen, 16 of the 19 bunkers belonging to the former West Air Defence Zone remain intact and are designated as monuments. Four of these structures, dating from 1938/39, have been restored to their original condition. These figures highlight different aspects: 16 out of 19 describes the number of bunkers that remain intact; four have been restored to their original condition. The monument can only be visited as part of the scheduled program activities on offer.

The now-closed “Korb” barite mine was located north of Eisen. It should not be confused with the origin of the town’s name: Eisen gets its name from ore discoveries, while Korb refers to a barite mine. These are two distinct connections to mineral resources; the mine is explicitly described as historic and closed.

Nature and Golf as Distinct Highlights

The montane heath grasslands near Eisen are among the three most significant remaining complexes of this habitat in Saarland. The comparison refers to the complexes still remaining in the state, giving the nature theme a specific regional context. Unlike the history of the bunkers, this is about a habitat that has been preserved. If you are considering nature and conservation as well as local history when choosing your destination, this offers a distinct perspective alongside the historical connections.

Golf is another specific travel interest: Golfpark Bostalsee in Nohfelden-Eisen offers one- and two-day taster golf courses through its golf academy. The two course formats differ in how much time they require, making it easy to factor a course into your travel plans. The one- and two-day options give you two clear choices. By contrast, visits to the monuments depend on the scheduled program activities on offer—another practical consideration for your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Theley, Alsweiler, Nohfelden, Sankt Wendel, Marpingen, Bosen, Freisen, Tholey.

Back to the main travel overview: Sankt Wendel.