Highlight • Monument
Hiking
4.3
(20)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
The Jan Arnošt Smoler Memorial honors a pivotal figure in Sorbian culture and language, Jan Arnošt Smoler (1816–1884). While not a single man-made monument, this highlight represents a collection of significant sites, primarily in Bautzen, Germany, that collectively preserve his legacy. Located in the historical region of Lusatia (Lausitz) in Saxony, these memorials commemorate Smoler's profound contributions as a Sorbian philologist, writer, and publisher, who dedicated his life to promoting the Sorbian languages and identity. The city of Bautzen, situated…
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May 2, 2024
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20
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

10
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
13
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Weather
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Friday 10 July
24°C
11°C
26 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Most visited during
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The Jan Arnošt Smoler Memorial is not a single monument but a collection of significant locations. These include Jan Arnošt Smoler's grave on Protschenberg in Bautzen, the Zejler-Smoler-Haus in Lohsa, and the Smolerjec kniharnja (Smoler's Bookstore) in Bautzen. Additionally, various memorial plaques and associations in Bautzen honor his legacy.
Yes, the cultural and historical sites like the Smolerjec kniharnja and the Zejler-Smoler-Haus are accessible and enjoyable year-round. While outdoor elements such as Smoler's grave might be best appreciated in milder conditions, a winter visit can offer a quieter, reflective experience, especially when combined with exploring Bautzen's festive atmosphere.
For outdoor locations like Jan Arnošt Smoler's grave on Protschenberg, dogs are generally permitted if kept on a leash. However, for indoor sites such as the Smolerjec kniharnja or the Zejler-Smoler-Haus, it's advisable to check their specific pet policies beforehand, as access may be restricted to service animals.
The Zejler-Smoler-Haus in Lohsa is significant because it's located in the former church school where Smoler's father worked, and Jan Arnošt spent part of his childhood there. It commemorates the collaboration between Smoler and the Sorbian poet Handrij Zejler, particularly their work on collecting Sorbian folk songs. Today, it functions as a vibrant cultural center dedicated to preserving and promoting Sorbian language and heritage.
The sites are generally considered accessible. In Bautzen, the city center where the Smolerjec kniharnja is located is relatively flat. Smoler's grave on Protschenberg involves some walking, but paths are typically well-maintained. For specific accessibility needs, especially at the Zejler-Smoler-Haus in Lohsa, it's recommended to contact the respective institutions directly for detailed information on ramps, elevators, or other facilities.
Bautzen offers various public parking options throughout the city center. For visiting Smoler's grave and the Smolerjec kniharnja, you can look for parking garages or street parking in the vicinity of the Old Town. Public transport within Bautzen is also a convenient way to reach these locations.
Smolerjec kniharnja in Bautzen is unique as the only bookstore offering a complete range of current Sorbian literature. You'll find books, journals, and other materials in Sorbian, alongside an extensive antiquarian section. It's a direct continuation of Jan Arnošt Smoler's publishing legacy and a vital hub for Sorbian literary culture.
While there isn't a single official guided tour encompassing all Smoler Memorial sites, local tourism offices in Bautzen and Lohsa may offer guided city tours or specialized tours focusing on Sorbian history and culture, which could include these locations. It's best to inquire with them directly for current offerings.
To visit Smoler's grave and the Smolerjec kniharnja in Bautzen, you might need 2-3 hours, allowing for travel between sites and time to explore. If you plan to include the Zejler-Smoler-Haus in Lohsa, which is a short drive from Bautzen, you should allocate a full half-day or more, depending on how deeply you wish to engage with each location.
Bautzen, with its historic Old Town, offers many attractions. You can explore the city's numerous towers, visit the Bautzen Memorial (former Stasi prison), or discover the Sorbian Museum. The Spreetal lake district near Bautzen also provides opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and walking.
Yes, Bautzen offers a range of accommodation options, from hotels and guesthouses in the city center to smaller pensions. For those visiting the Zejler-Smoler-Haus, there are also guesthouses and holiday rentals available in Lohsa and the surrounding Spreetal region.