Spreewald Biosphere Reserve
Brandenburg
The Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, located in Brandenburg, Germany, is a vast inland delta formed by the river Spree and recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1991. This unique landscape features over 200 small canals, called Fließe, stretching about 1,300 kilometers across a 484-square-kilometer area. Shaped during the last Ice Age, the region is characterized by alder and pine forests, wetlands, grasslands, and fields, supporting an estimated 18,000 species of flora and fauna. The Spreewald is culturally significant as the homeland of the Sorbs, a Slavic minority who have preserved their language, customs, and traditional clothing. The area’s traditional flat-bottomed boats, known as Spreewaldkähne, are a popular means for tourists to explore the canals. Principal towns such as Lübbenau, with its canal villages Lehde and Leipe, and Vetschau, home to the Slavic fortified settlement Slawenburg Raddusch, highlight the region's rich history and cultural landscape. The biosphere reserve balances nature conservation with tourism, agriculture, and fishery, making it a vibrant destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to explore the Spreewald best during spring to autumn when the canals are navigable and the natural scenery is vibrant. Booking boat tours (punts) in advance is recommended, especially in peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. The region offers various discounts for groups and families. Comfortable clothing and waterproof footwear are advisable due to the wetland environment. Local accommodations and guided tours can be arranged via the official Spreewald website for a seamless visit experience.
Faits intéressants
- •The Spreewald is home to over 200 small canals totaling approximately 1,300 kilometers in length.
- •It supports around 18,000 species of plants and animals, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
- •The traditional flat-bottomed boats, Spreewaldkähne, are unique to the region and used for navigating the canals.
- •The region is officially bilingual, with German and Lower Sorbian languages spoken.
- •The Spreewald gherkin and other pickled products have Protected Geographical Indication status from the EU.
Histoire
The Spreewald landscape was shaped during the last Ice Age, forming an extensive inland delta with natural river branches and canals.
Historically, the region has been inhabited by the Sorbs, a Slavic ethnic group who settled here centuries ago and preserved their language and traditions.
In 1991, the area was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve recognizing its ecological and cultural importance.
Over time, the Spreewald has evolved into a significant tourist destination while maintaining its traditional agriculture and fishing practices, reflecting a harmonious balance between human activity and nature conservation.
Guide du lieu
Lübbenau Canal Villages (Lehde and Leipe)
These villages are unique for their canal-based transport system instead of roads, offering an authentic experience of the Spreewald's waterway culture and traditional Sorbian lifestyle.
Slawenburg RadduschEarly Middle Ages
A reconstructed Old Slavic fortified wooden settlement near Vetschau, showcasing the early medieval history and culture of the Sorbs and Wends in the Spreewald region.
Contact
Téléphone: 035433 5810
