Ever wondered about a gallows in a forest? The Galgenablass isn’t a place of execution. It’s much more fascinating. Right here in Augsburg’s city forest near Siebenbrunner Strasse stands the Galgenablass. This isn’t just any culvert. This is the most important water crossing in the entire forest.
For centuries the Galgenablass has been a crucial part of Augsburg’s ingenious water management system. It expertly separates drinking water from process water. This is a remarkable feat of engineering. The system has been in operation since approximately 1500. It’s a testament to Augsburg’s early understanding of water hygiene. Think about it. Separating drinking water from industrial water was an innovative approach in the 16th century.
Originally the Grenzgraben a stream carried water across the Siebenbrunner Bach via a wooden bridge. A wooden wall or Schütz regulated water flow. It hung from a structure resembling a gallows. Hence the name Galgenablass meaning gallows discharge. This unique structure is a significant part of Augsburg’s rich history. It’s a link between the Lech river and the old city waterworks. The Galgenablass played a vital role in supplying Augsburg with water. The Grenzgraben and Brunnenbach were for a long time the city’s most important drinking water sources.
The Galgenablass wasn’t always what it is today. The Siebenbrunner Bach was deepened in 1870. This led to a major rebuild of the Galgenablass. The Grenzgraben now runs under the Siebenbrunner Bach in a culvert. The original wooden structure and Schütz are gone. However the name Galgenablass remains. It’s a reminder of the ingenuity and the evolution of this vital water crossing.
Today spring water from the Galgenablass still flows. It helps supply animals at Augsburg’s Zoological Garden. The Galgenablass is more than just a functional piece of infrastructure. It’s a historical monument. It speaks to Augsburg’s long history of water management. Its location in a protected area further emphasizes its importance. The Galgenablass stands as a testament to Augsburg’s innovative spirit and its commitment to sustainable water management. This seemingly unassuming culvert holds a significant place in Augsburg’s story. So next time you’re in the city forest don’t miss this remarkable piece of history.