Böhme: Chapels, Building History and the Böhmeaue

Discover Böhme through its two distinctive chapels and the landscape of the Böhmeaue. The buildings tell different stories: the St. Vitus Chapel in Bierde dates from the 19th century, while the chapel near Böhme 3 was built and consecrated as early as 1716. There is also a protected landscape area that extends into the districts of Bierde and Böhme. This means architectural history and landscape offer distinct focal points for planning your trip.

Two Chapels with Distinct Architectural Histories

The St. Vitus Chapel in Bierde was built in 1861 to a design by Hanoverian architect Conrad Wilhelm Hase (1818–1902). Its original furnishings from the time of construction have been preserved. A later addition is the small, single-manual organ by Furtwängler and Hammer, installed in 1891 on a wooden gallery in the north transept. The furnishings thus make it possible to distinguish between the construction period and a later alteration.

The chapel near Böhme 3 has a different character. It was built and consecrated in 1716 and stands at the end of the original western farm entrance. The massive octagonal central building has a mansard roof covered with tiles, resting on a sandstone plinth. Inside, a wooden dome spans the space; the furnishings include a gallery running around the room, simple pews and a wooden pulpit altar. A family crypt lies in the basement. The exterior and interior each offer their own points of interest if you are interested in historic architecture.

The Böhmeaue and Conditions on the River

The Böhmeaue protected landscape area covers approximately 1,712 hectares. It extends, among other places, into the municipality of Böhme, specifically the districts of Bierde and Böhme, and also includes FFH Site No. 77, “Böhme.” When planning a trip, it is important not to confuse landscape protection with a specific activity on the river: the rules on paddling apply to a particular stretch of river and are subject to conditions.

During the restricted period from 1 March to 15 July, the lower nature conservation authority may, upon application, grant its approval for organised events on the stretch of the Böhme from Bad Fallingbostel to the village of Böhme. Examples include events organised by schools and youth facilities; the prerequisite is that water protection is not compromised. This is not a general authorisation for unrestricted paddling during the restricted period. Before planning a paddling activity, check the information provided by the responsible authority, as rules on water use may change.

More Experiences in the Heidekreis

Those who would also like to explore other themes in the Heidekreis while planning their trip will find a range of cultural destinations there. The exhibition at the German Tank Museum Munster comprises more than 150 large exhibits in five halls covering more than 10,000 square metres; the displays may change. The “Hof der Heidmark” in Bad Fallingbostel was built in 1642, dismantled in 1936 and rebuilt in Liethwald. The listed building is one of the oldest in the Heidekreis district. Walsrode Abbey, the oldest of the famous heathland convents, and Ahlden Castle also offer their own historical highlights: the castle was built in 1579 on the Alte Leine and is associated with the banishment of Electoral Princess Sophia Dorothea.

For families with younger children, Peppa Pig Land at Heide Park in Soltau, with its gentle rides and family entertainment, is another option in the Heidekreis. The park’s Big 7 include the roller coasters Colossos, Krake and Scream. Buhl Activity Park Walsrode has high-ropes courses and an 18-hole footgolf course; the availability of individual activities may change. The Serengeti Park offers a different kind of experience, with a ten-kilometre safari drive in your own car.

The signposted routes in the Heidekreis also vary by activity: there are kilometres of routes for cycling, hiking, Nordic walking and horse riding, leading to worthwhile destinations. Focus your search on the places that matter for your trip, and take the relevant destinations into account when making regional plans.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Gilten, Schneverdingen, Wietzendorf, Behringen, Essel, Wolterdingen, Volkwardingen, Bispingen.

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