Did you notice the detailed coats of arms? This is the Kursächsische Postmeilensäule. It tells tales of royal ambition and a kingdom’s desire for order.
Standing before you is one of Freiberg’s original five post milestones. Three of these still stand near their original locations, which is unique in Saxony.
Imagine it is the year 1721. August the Strong, Elector of Saxony, issues a decree. He wants a comprehensive survey of his lands. Adam Friedrich Zürner, a cartographer, is tasked with this ambitious project. The aim was to erect Wegmarken, or route markers. These markers would later become known as Kursächsische Postmeilensäulen.
These post milestones were not just any markers. They had to adhere to specific design guidelines. Each Kursächsische Postmeilensäule needed to be 4.50 meters tall. They prominently featured the Elector’s initials, AR for Augustus Rex. A crown sat above these initials. The design included the coats of arms of Saxony and Poland. August the Strong was also King of Poland. The middle section displayed place names and distances.
The distances were measured in Kursächsische Postmeilen. One Postmeile equaled approximately 9062 meters. This equaled two hours of travel. One hour of travel equated to roughly 4531 meters.
The Kursächsische Postmeilensäule served a vital purpose. It was more than just a way marker. It was an early form of traffic management. It facilitated efficient transport for people, goods, and troops. The Electors could send messages across their lands more effectively.
Freiberg originally had five of these columns. Each one stood before one of the city’s original gates. This Kursächsische Postmeilensäule stood guard near the Erbischen Tor. The gate was at the exit of Erbische Straße, connecting to Hornstraße.
In the past years, our association worked to restore all three columns. The restoration of this Kursächsische Postmeilensäule at the Erbischen Tor was the first. In 2009, a high-quality gold inscription was added. Take a close look to admire the craftsmanship.
The Kursächsische Postmeilensäule at the Meißen Gate was completed in 2007. It stands at the exit of Meißen Straße. This is near the intersection of Meißen Ring and Halsbrücker Straße. The final restoration was the Kursächsische Postmeilensäule at the Peter Gate. This pillar was unveiled during the Freiberg Mountain City Festival in 2008. August the Strong himself was present for the celebration. Well, an actor portraying him.
These columns offer a glimpse into the past. They remind us of a time when royal decrees shaped the landscape. The Kursächsische Postmeilensäule is a symbol of Freiberg’s rich history.