Discover Oberkirn: Churches, Slate and Scenery

Oberkirn lies above the confluence of the Eschenbach and Kyr, sheltered by wooded hills. Two remarkable churches, the history of roofing slate mining and its traces on the slope of the Kyrbach valley shape the village. There is also a signposted half-day hike with meadow paths, woodland sections and views towards the Idarkopf. This gives you both local history and scenery to consider when planning your trip.

Churches with different histories

The Protestant Church stands at the upper edge of the village, on the foundations of a Roman country house, a villa rustica. The present building was constructed a few years before 1400 in a simple Gothic style. The church served as a burial place for the Schenken of Schmidtburg. A figurative tombstone for Franz Brune von Schmidtburg, who died in 1573, is set into its outer wall. This building brings together a Roman past, medieval architecture and the memory of a specific historical figure.

The Catholic Church offers a different point of reference. It stands in the middle of the village on a substantial slate slope and was consecrated in 1794. Together, the two churches illustrate different aspects of the village’s history: the Protestant Church combines a simple Gothic building with the foundations of a Roman country house, while the Catholic Church, perched on the slate slope, is closely tied to the local landscape.

Traces of slate mining

Roofing slate mining was Oberkirn’s main source of employment until the middle of the 20th century. Work took place in 21 nearby mines. Numerous spoil heaps and several dozen mine entrances remain on the slope of the Kyrbach valley as traces of this mining era. The mines reflect the former importance of extraction, while the spoil heaps and mine entrances show its mark on the landscape.

The statue of Saint Barbara is also connected with this history: it stands in a rock niche on the far side of the Kyrbach bridge. Barbara is regarded as the patron saint of miners. Mining, landscape and religious tradition thus come together in specific places and motifs, while the story extends beyond the former mines alone.

Landmarks and hiking route

A large wayside cross stands on a hill above the village, beside the road to Schwerbach. It adds another landmark to the churches and traces of mining. Those interested in Oberkirn’s history will find a range of sights: church buildings at two locations in the village, visible remnants of slate mining on the slope of the Kyrbach valley, and the cross on the hill.

For a longer hike, consider the Rhaunen–Oberkirn–Hausen route. The moderately difficult trail is 12.8 kilometres long and is listed as a half-day hike taking 3.5 hours. It follows meadow paths and passes through woodland sections; along the way, there are views of the Idarkopf. Check the route details again before setting out if you plan to include the hike in your day’s itinerary.

Choose the right focus for your trip

The hiking route makes for a half-day of activity in its own right; the churches and traces of mining offer a glimpse into Oberkirn’s architecture and local history. If you plan to do both, factor the hike’s duration into your day’s itinerary. This will help you choose accommodation to suit the interests that shape your trip.

Discover more destinations: Heimbach, Vollmersbach, Herrstein, Sensweiler, Fischbach, Sulzbach / Hunsrück, Sonnenberg-Winnenberg, Abentheuer.

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