Aschersleben

Aschersleben is the oldest documented town in Saxony-Anhalt and is located on the north-eastern edge of the Harz Mountains in the Eine Valley, which is why it is often referred to colloquially as the "Gateway to the Harz". It was first mentioned in 753 and was important in the Middle Ages as the seat of the Ascanians, including Albrecht the Bear. The town was granted city rights in 1266 and, despite destruction in the Second World War, experienced significant economic and social development during industrialisation, the GDR era and after reunification.

Today, Aschersleben offers holidaymakers and tourists a variety of different sights and excursion destinations. For example, the Stephanikirche, a late Romanesque basilica from the 12th century, is an architectural highlight and an absolute must-see for culture lovers. Also worth seeing is the old city fortifications, which run along the green promenade ring with imposing towers around the historic old town. The museum also offers insights into Aschersleben's urban history, vividly conveying over 1,250 years of history to inquisitive visitors in a historic 18th century farmhouse.

The artistically designed parks and gardens in the centre of the town provide relaxation while exploring the town. They have characterised Aschersleben since the 19th century and owe their appearance above all to the State Garden Show in 2010. The extensive park "Auf der Alten Burg" also offers pure relaxation. It is the favourite recreational area of the people of Aschersleben and boasts numerous hiking trails through the Harz foreland.

Aschersleben Zoo offers a special experience that not only delights families with children. As one of the oldest zoos in Saxony-Anhalt, it presents a variety of animal species in natural enclosures. Other excursion destinations worth seeing include the Freckleben Angular Church, Freckleben Castle and the Neo Rauch Graphic Arts Foundation.

If you want to see the town come alive with theatre performances, concerts and art exhibitions, you should definitely make a note of the annual Aschersleben Cultural Summer as a highlight of the year worth seeing. The traditional town festival in summer also attracts visitors from near and far and offers a colourful programme for all age groups.