The former village of Büddenstedt had to make way for lignite mining. From 1935, Neu Büddenstedt was newly laid out and built by BKB (Braunschweigische Kohlen-Bergwerke AG). This local history gives a visit a specific historical focus: it tells the story of the changes brought about by mining and the subsequent rebuilding.
Local History and Church
Another stop in the area’s history is the Evangelical Martin Luther Church in Büddenstedt. It was consecrated on 11 September 1955. Its bell tower is 36 metres high and the tallest in the Helmstedt provostry. The year it was consecrated and the tower’s height provide two clear historical and architectural points of reference. Those interested in local history can shift their focus from the profound changes brought about by lignite mining to a later chapter in architectural history.
Cycling Routes and Their Course
In Büddenstedt, the paläon Route connects to the Lappwaldsee Route. The Lappwaldsee Route runs along Lappwaldsee and continues to Büddenstedt. This links two route themes, but the specific route is also important when planning.
The Lappwaldsee and paläon cycling routes are diverted via Reinsdorf and Hohnsleben from the direction of Büddenstedt because of renovation work at Lappwaldsee and in the Helmstedt mining district. For several years, they have no longer passed through Wulfersdorfer Schweiz. Check the route before setting off so you can allow for the detour described when planning your ride.
Culture in the Wider Helmstedt Destination
The wider Helmstedt destination also offers the history of the Academia Julia. It opened in 1576 with faculties of theology, law, medicine and philosophy, and was one of the first Protestant universities in northern Germany. The Juleum Novum, the aula building of the former university, was built later: this palace-like Renaissance building was constructed between 1592 and 1597. The two dates distinguish the university’s opening from the construction period of its aula building.
The aula on the ground floor of the Juleum, the Auditorium Maximum, is used for concerts and lectures, including academic talks as part of the Helmstedt University Days. Visitors can also climb the tower: the 153 steps to the top of the Juleum Tower are open from April to October on the first Saturday of each month, between 11 a.m. and noon. Check the times before your visit.
The Helmstedt District and University Museum displays a model of the city of Helmstedt around 1750 and original objects from the university era. These include an astronomical disc, a globe and tableware from the university cafeteria. The Helmstedt Border Zone Museum documents the history of the former inner German border in five sections, from its beginnings to reunification. Exhibits include original objects, photographs, models and life-size displays. The “The Face of the Border” section includes an original metal picket fence, warning signs, mines, automatic firing devices and an overview model of the border fortifications. Visits and guided tours outside opening hours are possible by prior arrangement; please arrange these visits in advance.
Another historical landmark in Helmstedt is the Hausmannsturm. It is the oldest surviving city gate in the Duchy of Brunswick and the only one of Helmstedt’s four former gate towers to remain fully intact. From April to October, the week is rung out from the Hausmannsturm every Saturday at noon. The tree-lined, park-like ramparts invite visitors to stroll through the centre of Helmstedt. Check the seasonal dates for the Hausmannsturm and Juleum Tower before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Söllingen, Warberg, Brunsleberfeld, Jerxheim, Räbke, Lauingen, Bahrdorf, Königslutter Am Elm
Return to the wider travel overview: Helmstedt.
