I migliori hotel a Bautzen

The earliest settlements of Bautzen date back to 800 BC. For many, the name Bautzen is synonymous with prisons. In the 20th Century, many people were imprisoned for 'crimes against the state', and now, the Bautzen Memorial is a permanent exhibition within the walls of the 'Stazi Knast' prison to commemorate the victims. The town is also a cultural and political capital for the Sorbian peoples who settled in Germany in the Middle Ages, and who make up around 10% of the population. With their own Slavic language and traditions, which they are encouraged to maintain and promote by the town council and community leaders, the town has also changed all of the road signs to dual language to publicize the community links.

Location: On the border with Poland

On the eastern edge of Saxony, just 50 kilometres from the border with Poland to the east, and 20 kilometres from the Czech Republic to the south, this pretty town sits on a hilltop overlooking the River Spree and the Bautzen Dam. Dresden, with an international airport, is an hour to the west by the S-Bahn train, and under 40 minutes by car on the A4 Autobahn.

Business: A relaxing town with facilities near-by

Bautzen has numerous hotels and guesthouses in which to stay, and is close enough to the conference facilities in Dresden to commute easily if you do not wish to stay in the city. Bombardier Transportation is one of the major employers, building train waggons of all kinds here. Develey is responsible for the production of the popular mustard Bautz’ner Senf.

Culture: Uncover the Sorbian personality and history

The town is one of the only remaining in Germany to have a rich and vibrant Sorbian community still residing within its walls. Learn more of the people, their history, and their rich culture by visiting the Sorbian Museum and the Folk Theatre during your stay. With a large exhibition detailing the life and history of the people during the ages, it is a fascinating insight into the Sorbian culture.

Activities: Experience the atmosphere within the prison walls

From 1945 to 1989, the prisons of Bautzen were used to hold political prisoners and other anti-government protesters. Much of the activities and atrocities that went on within the drab, grey walls are still unknown, but a trip to the two prisons and the Prison Memorial gives a feeling of the conditions and the fear that they would have undergone on a daily basis. In total, it is thought that more than 30,000 political prisoners were incarcerated over the years.