Krummesse

Gazing upon this seemingly ordinary town of Krummesse, could you ever guess its secret? Krummesse, a village southwest of Lübeck in southeastern Schleswig-Holstein, holds a peculiar distinction. It’s a town divided, a place where the boundary lines blur and history has left its mark in the most unusual way. Krummesse earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the longest internal border relative to its size. This almost 3,000-meter line zigzags through the town, dividing streets, properties, and even houses. This division stems from the 14th century when the indebted Knight Marquard von Crummesse gambled away parts of his land to a Lübeck merchant. Unable to repay his debts, the land was lost, creating a patchwork of ownership. This unusual division persists to this day, with parts of Krummesse belonging to Lübeck and others to the Duchy of Lauenburg. The border’s complexity creates curious situations for residents. For example, dog owners pay different tax rates depending on which side of the border their house falls. One resident might pay 250 euros, while a neighbor just across the line pays only 80 euros. Despite the inconveniences, Krummesse residents have adapted. The divided nature of Krummesse brings some benefits. Lübeck funds the volunteer fire department, benefiting all residents. A Lübeck city bus even runs into the village due to its partial affiliation with the city. Krummesse is more than just its divided nature. The village boasts a rich history, first mentioned in records in 1194. It was once the seat of the Knights of Crummesse. The landscape is shaped by the last ice age, featuring the Stecknitz-Delvenau lowlands. This valley was carved by melting glaciers. Krummesse is also home to the St. Johannis Church, built on a fieldstone base around 1270. The church’s two-aisled design is a unique feature in Schleswig-Holstein, posing a slight challenge for marrying couples who must briefly separate as they walk down the aisle. Krummesse has retained its village charm despite postwar development. The blend of history, unique geography, and community spirit makes Krummesse a truly captivating destination. A visit here is not just a trip to a town, but a journey through time and a testament to human adaptability.