The gentle splashing of water greets you. Welcome to NaturKulturBad Zschonergrund. This isn’t just any swimming pool. It’s a testament to community spirit and resilience.
Imagine this place in 1988. The NaturKulturBad Zschonergrund was closed. It fell into disrepair. Vandalism ravaged the historic light and air bath. Yet the people of Briesnitz refused to let it disappear. They formed an interest group. They fought to save their beloved local recreation area. Their petition gathered nearly 5000 signatures. This stopped the city from removing it from the land use plan.
Since 1996 the Zschonergrundbad eV/NaturKulturBad Zschonergrund eV has worked tirelessly. They secured a lease with the city. Volunteers and workers on government-funded job creation schemes toiled side by side. Fundraising events brought in crucial funds. Even a beer garden opened to raise money. Dresden artists like Ludwig Göttler and Gunther Emmerlich donated their time for benefit concerts. A generous bequest added 167000 euros. The city contributed 260000 euros in 2013 and 2014.
On May 31 2015 the NaturKulturBad Zschonergrund reopened. It was reborn as a natural swimming pool with a plant-based water purification system. The old shower building from 1927 was renovated. A playground was built. The total cost was around 500000 euros. Members contributed just as much through their own hard work. Today the Lebenshilfe Dresden operates this unique facility.
The NaturKulturBad Zschonergrund isn’t just a place to swim. It’s a place where history and community thrive. It’s a vibrant reminder of what can be achieved through dedication and collective effort. So take a moment. Enjoy this special place. It’s a hidden gem in Dresden. A testament to the power of community and the enduring beauty of nature.