Wernigerode

Wernigerode
Name	Wernigerode
State	Saxony-Anhalt
District	Harz
Elevation	240
Area	170.03
Population	35041
Postal code	38855
Area code	03943
Licence	HZ
Website	www.wernigerode.de

Wernigerode is a charming town situated on the northern fringes of the Harz mountain range in the German state of Saxony-Anhalt. Often referred to as the "Colorful Town on the Harz" for its well-preserved, vibrantly painted half-timbered houses, it serves as a popular tourist destination and the capital of the Harz district. The town's history is deeply intertwined with the County of Wernigerode and later the Principality of Waldeck-Pyrmont, with its iconic Wernigerode Castle overlooking the medieval old town.

History

The first documented mention of Wernigerode dates to 1121 in connection with the Counts of Wernigerode, who established their seat on the Agnesberg hill. It received its town charter around 1229, as confirmed by a document from Emperor Frederick II, and prospered due to its location on important trade routes like the Hellweg and its rights to hold markets. Following the extinction of the local comital line in 1429, the town and county fell under the control of the County of Stolberg, leading to periods of conflict such as during the Thirty Years' War. In 1714, the territory was inherited by the Princes of Stolberg-Wernigerode, who rebuilt the castle into its current Neo-Renaissance form. The town became part of the Kingdom of Prussia in 1815 after the Congress of Vienna and later experienced industrialization, notably with the arrival of the Harz Railway in the 19th century. After World War II, it was incorporated into the German Democratic Republic before becoming part of the restored state of Saxony-Anhalt following German reunification.

Geography

Wernigerode is nestled at an elevation of approximately 240 meters on the northern slopes of the Harz, Germany's northernmost low mountain range. The town's territory extends into the Harz National Park, with the Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz, located to the south. The Holtemme river flows through the town, and the surrounding landscape is characterized by dense forests, including the Harz beech forests, and reservoirs like the Steinerne Renne. It is part of the Harz district and lies roughly 20 kilometers southwest of the larger city of Halberstadt.

Main sights

The most dominant landmark is the majestic Wernigerode Castle, a 19th-century reconstruction that now houses a museum and offers panoramic views. The historic old town is renowned for its exquisite half-timbered architecture, including the ornate Town Hall (1498) on the Market Square and the leaning Krummelsches Haus. Other significant buildings are the Western Tower, a remnant of the medieval fortifications, the St. John's Church, and the St. Sylvestri Church. The Harz Narrow Gauge Railways, particularly the Brocken Railway, depart from Wernigerode, providing scenic journeys to the summit of the Brocken. The Kleinste Haus (Smallest House) and the Historic Fire Station are further notable attractions.

Culture

Wernigerode hosts several traditional festivals, most famously the annual Wernigerode Christmas Market and the colorful Harz Festival Week. The town is a center for the preservation of Harz folk traditions and is home to the Harz Library with its important regional collections. Cultural institutions include the Harz Theater, the City Museum Wernigerode located in the former Franciscan monastery, and the Museum for Aviation and Technology. The surrounding Harz region is steeped in legends and folklore, famously associated with tales of witches and the Walpurgis Night celebrations.

Economy

Tourism forms a cornerstone of the local economy, supported by the town's historic appeal and proximity to the Harz National Park. The service sector, including hospitality, retail, and health care, is well-developed. Wernigerode has a tradition of precision engineering and manufacturing, with companies operating in fields such as automotive supply and medical technology. The town is also a recognized spa town, benefiting from its clean air and scenic setting. Educational and research institutions, including a campus of the Harz University of Applied Sciences, contribute to the economic structure.

Notable people

Historically significant figures from Wernigerode include Count Christian Ernest of Stolberg-Wernigerode, a notable statesman in the Kingdom of Prussia. The composer Friedrich Lux was born here, as was the influential botanist and pharmacist Johann Friedrich Gmelin. More recent notable residents include the Olympic athlete Karin Balzer and the politician Klaus Töpfer, who served as a federal minister and executive director of the United Nations Environment Programme.

Category:Towns in Saxony-Anhalt Category:Harz