Löbau, Germany

Welcome to Löbau, a picturesque city located in the east of Saxony, Germany, in the traditional region of Upper Lusatia. This charming city is situated between the slopes of the Löbauer Berg and the fertile hilly area of the Upper Lusatian Mountains, making it the perfect gateway to this volcanic mountainous area. Löbau is also conveniently located halfway between the cities of Bautzen, Görlitz, and Zittau, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

History buffs will be delighted to know that Löbau has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city was a member of the Lusatian League, consisting of the six cities Bautzen, Görlitz, Kamenz, Lauban, Löbau, and Zittau. The regional alliance was first established in 1346 and disbanded in 1815. The league was revived in 1991, though it no longer holds political power and mostly acts as a tourism promotion board. Löbau was first mentioned in 1221 as Oppidum Lubaw.

One of the most famous landmarks in Löbau is the King Frederick Augustus Tower. The tower made of cast iron was built in 1854 on the Löbauer Berg and is 28 m tall. It is the biggest cast-iron tower in Europe and offers magnificent views of the Lusatian Highlands. The town hall of the city is a noteworthy mixture of several architectural styles. Another famous building is the Schminke House by German architect Hans Scharoun, one of the most important exponents of organic and expressionist architecture. The building dates from the 1930s, anticipating the architecture of the 1950s. It is regarded as one of Scharouns greatest works.

Löbau is also known for the piano manufacturing company August Förster. The company was founded in 1859 and is still in operation today. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and see how the pianos are made.

If you’re interested in politics, you’ll be fascinated to know that following the North German Confederation Treaty, the Kingdom of Saxony entered the North German Confederation in 1866. This continued after the founding of the German Empire on 18 January 1871. Following this, Saxony participated in Reichstag elections from February 1867. Löbau returned a series of Reichstag Deputies until 1919 when the existing constituencies were scrapped.

Löbau is twinned with Makó, Hungary; Ettlingen, Germany; and Luban, Poland. The city has also produced several notable individuals, including Olympic gold medalist Uwe Proske, forger Konrad Kujau, and piano maker August Förster.

Come and experience the beauty and history of Löbau for yourself. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect destination for any traveler.