Get ready for a special experience in Zittau (Zittau), the eastern pearl of Saxony at the crossroads of Germany, the Czech Republic and Poland. This city warmly combines industrial heritage, religious art and a picturesque mountain landscape:
1. Market Square (Marktplatz) and Italian-style Town Hall
The market square captivates visitors with architecture reminiscent of Italian palazzi.
a traditional fountain
historic buildings all around
It is the perfect starting point for exploring the city and getting your first feel for Zittau.
2. Gothic Church of St. John (St. Johanniskirche)
With its 60-metre tower and spiritual atmosphere in the historic centre, this church conveys a strong sense of history and culture.
You can climb the tower to enjoy a stunning panoramic view over the city and the Zittau Mountains.
3. Fastentücher – monumental Lenten veils
In the Kirche zum Heiligen Kreuz museum and the Kreuzkirche you can discover Zittau’s famous Fastentücher (Lenten veils) from 1472.
huge textile panels of impressive size
around 90 biblical scenes depicted in detail
They are among the most important artistic treasures in the region and form a unique example of late medieval religious art (visitsaxony.com).
4. Salzhaus (Historic Salt House)
A prominent Renaissance storage building topped by about 340 windows.
Today it houses:
a library
spaces for lectures and cultural events
shops and restaurants
All of this within a lively historic setting that blends the past with the present.
5. Zittau Zoo – Tierpark Zittau
Set within an elegant English-style landscaped park, the zoo is home to about 380 animals from around 70 species, including:
parrots
camels
lynx and other wild animals
It is an ideal outing for families and animal lovers (de.wikipedia.org).
6. Narrow-gauge railway – Zittauer Schmalspurbahn
Take a ride on the traditional steam-powered narrow-gauge railway from the city centre into the Zittau Mountains, to spa resorts such as Oybin and Jonsdorf.
nostalgic steam locomotive
leisurely journey through valleys and forests
A romantic and nature-filled experience at the same time (ostsachsen.de).
7. Nature in the Zittau Mountains (Zittauer Gebirge)
Peaks such as Hochwald and Nonnenfelsen offer breathtaking views.
rocky forest landscapes
well-marked hiking trails
opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy deep tranquility
A perfect retreat in the tri-border region of Germany, the Czech Republic and Poland (komoot.com).
8. Castles and village churches around Zittau
A short trip to Oybin takes you to the remains of a monastery and a castle perched on a dramatic rock outcrop.
imposing ruins high above the valley
a mystical atmosphere
a blend of local legend, history and nature
It feels like stepping into an old story set in rugged, spiritual surroundings.
| Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Ideal duration | Two days: Day 1 for cultural sights and museums; Day 2 for the railway and the mountains. |
| Best time to visit | April to October, when the climate is pleasant and hiking trails are accessible. |
| Getting around | Walk within the city; use the narrow-gauge railway to link city and nature; take buses or bikes for additional tours. |
| For photography fans | Time your visit for sunset from the St. John’s church tower, capture the window light at the Salzhaus, or ride the early morning steam trains. |
Conclusion
Zittau lies at the heart of a wild and culturally rich landscape that is still relatively undiscovered. It combines the charm of historic architecture (market square, churches), rare artistic treasures (Lenten veils), a lively zoo in an English park and the romance of a steam train winding through the mountains.
A unique experience that blends countryside, culture and serenity – perfect for a short break you will not forget.
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