46. Bad Dürrenberg spa gardens

The establishment of the spa gardens is closely connected to the use of the brine source found in Dürrenberg in 1763. Soon after it was tapped, the curative effect of the brine was recognised, and in addition to the salt production, the spa business also developed soon afterwards. The bathhouse was constructed in 1846 and Dürrenberg became “Königlich-Preußisches Solbad Dürrenberg” (Royal Prussian saltwater spa Dürrenberg).  The development of the spa gardens area began at the end of the 19th century. Here, the garden planners were guided by the purpose of the complex and the typical perceptions of garden design in the late 19th century. To allow people to go for walks in the saline air, paths with grass banks and benches were set up along the graduation towers, which were 1,821 metres long at the time. In addition, a rich plantation and the integration of small-scale architecture made the southern part of the spa gardens an attractive setting for the saltwater spa. Today, the plum tree pergola – which has since been renovated – continues to bear witness to this. Since the late 1920s, the spa gardens area has been expanded and the older parts of the complex have been reshaped.

Today, the archaeological site of the “Dürrenberger Schamanin” (Dürrenberg shaman) is also integrated into the garden design and testifies – along with the menhir – to the exciting prehistory of the spa gardens area.

The entire complex is open to the public during the opening hours. The range of services include a children’s playground, tours, cultural and music events, festivals, markets and exhibitions.