The High Forest

In the Hartmannsdorf, Langenweißbach and Kirchberg area, one of the oldest and best-preserved mining landscapes in the Ore Mountains can be found in the "Hoher Forst" forest. Remarkable mining archaeological relics of silver mining from the 12th to 15th centuries are clearly visible above ground. The remains of a moat and a tower mound castle are visible in the area of extensive pingen fields. Together with the relics of underground shafts and mining routes, the "Hoher Forst" mining landscape is a rare testimony to the medieval, mining-influenced settlement process in the Ore Mountains.

As site number 5, it has been a World Heritage Site of the Ore Mountains/Krušnohoří Mining Region since 2019.

The nature and mining trail located there is a circular hiking trail of approx. 6 kilometers, equipped with signposts, information boards and seating areas. Station 3 of the trail is Zechenplatz. In 2003, the mouth of the "Engländerstolln" tunnel (excavated in 1944-45) was excavated here. This tunnel leads into the "Martin-Römer-Stolln" after approx. 140 meters. As several hiking trails converge at the colliery site, a hiking rest area with a shelter was built here.

For their commitment to preserving this archaeological monument, the Kirchberg Friends of Nature and Local History were awarded the "Silver Hemisphere", the highest award of the German National Committee for Monument Preservation, in 2020.

All information about the hiking trail, guided tours and the association can be found at: http://www.kirchberger-bergbrueder.de

Opening times

The nature and mining trail is freely accessible.

The association mine "Engländerstolln" can be visited on request.

Kirchberg Nature and Heritage Friends of the Nature Conservation Association of Germany

Local group Kirchberg e.V. / Chairman Wolfgang Prehl Phone 037602-6032