Discover Zeithain by Bike, in Nature and Through Its History

Zeithain offers different ways to explore the area during a stay: the Elbe Cycle Route, walking opportunities through the Riesa–Strehla Elbe floodplain, the post mill in Zschepa and a permanent exhibition on the history of the prisoner-of-war camp. Nature and outdoor activities sit alongside an in-depth historical focus.

Cycling, Hiking and Nature

Zeithain provides access to the Elbe Cycle Route. You can also hike through the Riesa–Strehla Elbe floodplain conservation area; the Gohrisch-Heide nature reserve is another attraction in the municipality. Cycling along the Elbe Cycle Route and hiking through the protected floodplain offer different ways to spend time outdoors. Which routes you plan depends on your interests. Route conditions and access may vary by season, so check the conditions for the time of your visit.

The Post Mill in Zschepa

A post mill dating from 1852 stands in the district of Zschepa. It serves as a stop for cyclists on the Elbe Cycle Route, linking a particular historic structure with the cycling theme. Access to the mill itself may depend on local arrangements. If you plan to visit, confirm in advance whether it is open to visitors.

The Permanent Exhibition on the History of the Prisoner-of-War Camp

The permanent exhibition explores the history of the prisoner-of-war camp in Zeithain, as well as Italian military internees and Polish prisoners. Other topics include relations between the German population and the prisoners, the investigation of the mass deaths, and how the prisoners’ fate was addressed in their home countries. This section therefore focuses on various aspects of captivity and its consequences. The exhibition content may change; bear this in mind when planning a visit.

More to Explore in the Wider Meißen Destination

The wider Meißen destination offers its own cultural and city attractions. Albrechtsburg presents the history of the Wettin dynasty. An exhibition there uses virtual displays and interactive media stations. The HistoPad offers an interactive tour with augmented reality and 3D scenes; nine time portals take visitors back as far as the 15th century. The exhibition may change, so check visitor information before planning a visit.

Explore Meißen’s historic old town on a variety of tours. The “Cradle of Saxony” tour winds through the restored old town, past Renaissance townhouses and former cathedral chapter courtyards, to Cathedral Square with Albrechtsburg and the cathedral. The historic monuments route also leads through the old town, whose architecture is shaped by Gothic and Renaissance styles. It includes 25 historic buildings and monuments, among them the Late Gothic town hall, a Renaissance portal, Albrechtsburg, the cathedral, the bishop’s castle and the cathedral chapter courtyards. Guided public walking tours of the city are also available.

The Meißen City Museum illustrates the city’s development with historical models and large exhibits on viticulture, Elbe fishing and navigation. It also displays typical Meißen porcelain and ceramics. In addition to its permanent exhibition, the museum presents special exhibitions twice a year. At the visitor centre of the State Porcelain Manufactory Meissen, you can see how Meissen porcelain is shaped and painted. Meißen wine can be sampled in the city and in the surrounding Elbe wine villages along the river.

Discover more destinations: Gohlis, Nünchritz, Weinböhla, Thiendorf, Röderaue, Riesa, Strehla, Meißen

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