The impressive Karl Marx statue found in Chemnitz may shock visitors with its size. The statue boasts the title of 'second-largest bust in the world', second only to the statue of Lenin's head in Russia, and stands at 7.10 meters (23.29 feet) tall. This massive statue was created by Lev Kerbel, a Soviet sculptor that was hired by the East-German government to create a statue for the city, which at the time was named Karl-Marx-Stadt. Kerbel cast the bronze statue in Leningrad and then broke the startlingly large head down into 95 pieces so that it could be shipped to Chemnitz. The statue has since become a rather beloved figure in the city, and up until 2007, the city's motto was even "Stadt mit Köpfchen," or the city with brains in reference to the giant head at the city's center. Today, visitors can still visit this unique sculpture and read the wall that stands behind the statue, which reads "Workers of the world, Unite!", the most renowned saying from the Communist Manifesto, in four different languages.
Augustusburg Hunting Lodge was once the residence of the von Schellenberg family. Perched atop a hill named after the resident family, the castle is now considered historical landmark and tourist attraction. Surrounded by miles of pristine green woods and the mighty Ore Mountains, the castle offers breath-taking, panoramic views of the neighboring areas. Known for its outstanding architecture and fabulous interiors designs, Jagdschloss Augustusburg is considered to be one of the finest structures in the city. It houses one of the largest motorcycle museums in Europe that attracts motorcycle enthusiasts from far and wide.
Located in the city of Schwarzenberg, the Schwarzenberg Castle is a popular attraction among young families with children and tourists for its rich history and many fun cultural activities. Towering over rest of the town with its imposing turrets, the castle forms a striking postcard perfect picture. Dating back to the 12th Century, it has been remarkably well preserved and its interiors refurbished to form a charming historical palace where visitors can take part in adventure hikes around the castle, creative workshops, fun games and also attend traditional and modern music concerts in the cellar. A museum, a music school and a community college are located in the castle building as well.
Perched above a forested bluff with the serpentine river Zwickau Mulde flowing beneath it, Schloss Rochsburg stands majestically overlooking the valley. An iconic landmark, this splendid castle is said to be from the Middle Ages with a mention of it towards the end of the 12th Century. Its present form is from the 16th Century when its fortified appearance was modified. Owned by the Schönburg family till 1945, it is an impressive Renaissance masterpiece in the region. Its fairy-tale like settings will almost transport you into a land of mystery and legends. The castle was transformed into a museum since 1911 and gives and enchanting glimpse of its nearly thousand-year old history. Get to know the lifestyles of the Counts of Schönburg as you explore the ornate rooms or chronicle the thousand years of textile history where you get to know the fashion sensibilities of the various eras. There are also arts and crafts exhibits that are equally engaging. Schloss Rochsburg also hosts events throughout the year showcasing the culture of the area.
While steam locomotives are no longer commercially used, their charm among train enthusiasts remains unfazed. Eisenbahnmuseum Schwarzenberg is an effort to nurture an interest in these smoke-belching machines. This open air museum features a series of train engines such as freight steam locomotive, steam storage locomotive and much more. Other than these historic locomotives, one can also witness shunting of more modern makes.
Martin-Luther-Kirche is visited by locals and tourists who come here to offer their prayers as well as admire its beauty. This church is one of the historic structures of the region and is believed to be first constructed in the early 17th Century. Martin-Luther-Kirche was later reconstructed and the present structure dates back to the early 19th Century. This lovely church boasts a Neo-Gothic facade and the interiors are equally beautiful frescoes, stained-glass windows and the 19th-century organ. Besides, regular prayer service, the church also hosts concerts and other cultural events.
Schlosshof Glauchau is one of the popular concert venues in the city. This ancient castle offers ample space and a historic feel, convenient for local festivals and celebrations.
The Evangelische Lutheran Kirchgemeinde St. Christophori is an active local church that offers regular services and prayers. The church has a spectacular facade and dates back to the 16th Century. Renovations and additions to the church were done in the 17th and 18th Centuries. The church houses a marble font dating back to 1610, carved by Michael Hegewald. The resplendent church organ was built in 1925. The church conducts several local events and activities.
Located in the state of Saxony, Klösterlein Zelle is a former monastery belonging to the Augustinian order. Built in 1773, this was once a decorated residence of Augustinian monks and boasted of a huge community throughout the state. Withstanding the test of time and bad whether, the monastery still maintains most of its originality, although the structure has witnessed a considerable amount of repairs and restoration.
Arktisch-Alpiner Garten der Walter-Meusel-Stiftung is established by Walter Meusel, noted musician and composer as well as writer of various botanical and zoological publications. Arktisch-Alpiner Garten der Walter-Meusel-Stiftung opened to public in the year 1956 and specializes in alpine and arctic plant species. Arktisch-Alpiner Garten der Walter-Meusel-Stiftung contains nearly 6000 species of plant while the focus remains on mountainous and cold regions. At Arktisch-Alpiner Garten der Walter-Meusel-Stiftung, visitors can explore significant collections of ferns, Ericaceae, willows, Saxifragaceae, New Zealand's mountain plants as well as plants from East Asia, South and North America, Caucasus, Alps and other regions of Europe.
Established in 1985 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Freiberg Germany Temple is a beautiful place with an aura of bliss and calm. It conducts services like baptisms on prior appointment. The temple also welcomes group visits and there are special additional sessions available for people as well.The temple has excellent architecture and underwent refurbishment in 2001.