Auleben: History, Culture and Nature

Auleben brings together archaeological traces, architectural history and a protected hilly landscape. The village is of interest to travelers who want to give varying weight to culture, nature and sightseeing. Specific points of interest include a large burial ground, historic sites, a museum of everyday life and the gypsum hills with their distinctive plant life. If you are looking for accommodation in Auleben, you can first consider whether your trip will focus more on culture, nature or both.

Auleben’s layered architectural history

Auleben’s archaeological highlights include around 200 burial mounds. The burial ground is considered the largest in northern Thuringia and gives the village’s history a distinctive archaeological dimension. Auleben Castle is another striking feature: this massive, two-storey building with a half-timbered upper section and stair tower has stood since 1518. Wilhelm von Humboldt lived there for a time; the Humboldt Room provides information about this connection.

The former Rüxleber manor house, known as the Neuer Rüxleber Hof, reveals another layer of history. Its residential and defensive tower dates from the 14th century. The arched gateway, manor house, outbuildings and courtyard complete the ensemble. Together, the different sites represent various aspects of the village’s history: the castle’s architectural style and connection to Humboldt, and the manor house’s former function as a knight’s estate and its notable architectural features.

The Baroque hall church of St. Peter and Paul stands on a rise at the southern edge of the village. Its recessed west tower and spacious churchyard, enclosed by a rubble-stone wall, define its appearance. The church thus adds a distinct sacred architectural element to Auleben’s historic attractions.

Culture and everyday history

The Kulturhof Auleben gallery features the permanent exhibition “Sound and Power.” It presents documentary impressions of the Schulze organ in the Church of St. Peter and Paul in Auleben. The Kulturhof also offers occasional guided tours and bespoke events for up to 25 people, which can be requested. Private wine tastings can be arranged to suit your needs. Contact the Kulturhof to ask about dates and availability.

The Museum of Everyday History at the Neuer Rüxleber Hof displays objects from everyday life over the past 150 years. These include household and writing tools, film equipment, as well as bicycles, radios and playback devices. The collection ranges from everyday items to technological media, offering a different perspective on local history than the historic buildings do. Check with the museum for current opening hours before your visit.

Protected gypsum hills and spring blossoms

The protected gypsum hills are home to many plants that thrive in calcareous soils and warm conditions. The blossoms of pheasant’s eye and pasqueflowers add a special seasonal touch and are regarded in Auleben as heralds of spring. Nature and architectural history offer different highlights: the blossoms are a recurring seasonal experience, while the historic sites and everyday history appeal to other interests. Auleben is well suited to hiking and sightseeing.

You can also combine the two; which direction suits you depends on your own travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Niedersachswerfen, Heringen/Helme, Windehausen, Rodishain, Hainrode/Hainleite, Bleicherode, Nordhausen, Hesserode.

Go to the main travel overview: Nordhausen.