The Saigerhütte in Olbernhau-Grünthal is unique in Europe. It is a structural and technical testimony to the metallurgy of non-ferrous metals from the late Middle Ages.
The "Saigerhütte Olbernhau - Grünthal" is a unique testimony of the non-ferrous metallurgy metallurgy in the world from the year 1537. It owes its name to a melting process for desilvering black copper that was revolutionary at the time, the Saigern. For centuries, the Saiger process was regarded as the pinnacle of metallurgy.
The formerly self-contained, privileged industrial community includes more than 20 historic buildings, surrounded by the remains of a fortified wall. The Saigerhütte was also the center of copper processing in Saxony. Four hammer works once belonged to the complex. The first rolling mill worked from 1847. A special feature of the local production was the Grünthal roof copper, which carries or carried more than 400 buildings. For example, the Dresden Frauenkirche, the Ulm Minster and St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. The roof copper was characterized by its high quality and covered with the green patina after a short time.
In the area, the visitor gets a comprehensive insight into the technology, history and social structure of a centuries-old metallurgical plant. In the Saigerhütte Museum, in the former copper goods warehouse, finds, museum objects and models can be seen, which explain both the development of the metallurgical works and the production process of Saigern. In the copper hammer, the oldest functioning hammer mill in Europe, the hammer worker demonstrates the Breithammer, which weighs six hundredweight. In the outdoor area "Lange Hütte" the dimensions of a Saigerhütte are illustrated by means of ovens, herds and a stamp mill.
Facts and connections are revealed to the astonished visitor. And what is behind the legends and myths? Discover for yourself the secrets of the Saigerhütte, which has represented a self-contained community for centuries.
The Saigerhütte Grünthal is one of 22 components of the UNESCO World Heritage Montanregion Erzgebirge/Krušnohoří.
TIP:
Become a master mint h.c. the Saigerhütte in Grünthal. Mint your "Grünthaler Glücksgroschen" yourself at the historical coinage in the Saigerhütte Museum and receive an honorary certificate as a minting master.