Kiepenfrau Sculpture on the Hexenstieg

Kiepen women were part of the classic image of the Harz region until the first third of the 20th century. They transported various goods from black powder to alcohol to food in their woven wicker baskets, often carrying up to 40 kilograms on their backs. This has earned them the unflattering name “Camels of the Upper Harz” in the vernacular.

At this point - on the historic climb into the Harz Mountains - a monument has been created for them. Here you can even try out a 40-kilogram box and get an insight into the tough everyday lives of these strong women. But you are also welcome to sit on the bench and rest next to the Kiepenfrau. 😉

The Kiepenfrauen were also called "Harz-Kamel" because in summer and winter they carried the heavy loads for a meager income many kilometers on their backs uphill and downhill.

In addition to the Kiepen women, there was also the donkey as a means of transport to feed the miners in the Harz mountains