Kalkberg Nature Reserve

The Kalkberg nature reserve is the oldest natural monument of its kind. The Kalkberg is actually a gypsum mountain and was once 80 meters higher than it is now. Gypsum was mined here until the end of the 19th century. For almost 100 years now it has been a nature reserve and a biotope that has developed wonderfully. From the top of the mountain you have a beautiful view over the old town of Lüneburg. A detour into the cauldron is also worthwhile - depending on how high the water is in the cauldron.

The Kalkberg, located in the western part of Lüneburg, is located in the central area of the Lüneburg salt dome and forms part of it. Gypsum was once mined in a quarry in the area. Due to the depletion of the deposit and the increasing anhydrite content of the gypsum, mining ceased in 1923. The occurrence of boracite crystals is of particular geological interest. The Kalkberg also boasts a rare flora, which is being preserved by pruning the emerging woody plants. The Kalkberg offers visitors a sweeping view of the Lüneburg city area.
Source: nlwkn.niedersachsen.de/naturschutzgebiete/-42930.html

Currently, the cauldron is almost waterless and can be explored on foot.