Purchased in 1367, Burgaue has a rich story. This forest area in northwest Leipzig once aimed to fuel the city. Imagine Leipzig’s residents gathering firewood here centuries ago.
Burgaue’s name evolved over time. Locals initially called it Luch. Later maps show Bürgeraue. This reflects its purpose as a communal forest.
Today, the Burgaue is a nature reserve. It spans about 270 hectares. Once a mere 43.2 hectares in 1961, its protected area expanded. This reflects a growing commitment to conservation.
The Burgauenbach enhances Burgaue’s natural appeal. Created between 1997 and 1999, this stream covers 5.374 km. It revitalized old channels and floodways. The effort cost 1.5 million Deutsche Mark.
Historically, Burgaue was an independent estate. In 1900, only four people lived here. They were the forest warden and his family. By 1925, the area was integrated into Leipzig.
The Burgaue forms part of the cross-state Elster-Luppe-Aue. Hundewasser bordered it to the north and the Luppe to the south. The Luppe is now partly known as the Nahle.
You can wander through the Burgaue. Find the Waldspielplatz Burgaue. Discover the Burgauenbach, created to restore the area. Cross the Burgauenbrücke over the Neue Luppe.
Near the Burgaue, the Auensee emerged from gravel mining. The mining supported Leipzig’s main train station construction. The resulting pit filled with water in 1913. The Leipziger Parkeisenbahn circles the Auensee.
The area once featured the Luna-Park. This amusement park opened in 1914. It faced insolvency in the 1930s. Only the main restaurant survived. It was renamed Haus Auensee in 1936. Today, Haus Auensee hosts concerts.
The Burgaue showcases Leipzig’s dedication to nature. It offers a blend of history and ecological preservation. This area protects diverse plant and animal life. The forests boast abundant spring blooms. As you explore, remember Burgaue’s journey. It transformed from a source of firewood to a protected natural haven.