Picture the Weiberstein. This unassuming stone stands quietly. It’s a monument to two brave women. Their story is woven into the very fabric of Radebeul’s history. The Weiberstein also known as the Wettin-Denkstein or Wettin-Gedenkstein is more than just a rock. It’s a testament to courage and foresight.
On October 18 1784 a hunting party traveled along the old Meissen post road. This road ran alongside the Elbe River. Among the hunters was Prince Elector Friedrich August the Just. He would later become King Friedrich August I. The road was in disrepair. It was partly eroded by the river. Two peasant women risked their safety. They stopped the carriages. They prevented a potentially fatal accident. Their warning saved the Prince Elector and his companions including Anton the Pious from a serious fall.
For their bravery the women received a lifelong pension from the grateful Prince Elector. This event had lasting consequences. From 1785 to 1788 extensive construction work was undertaken along the Elbe. The current Meissen road was built. It replaced the old dangerous route between Dresden and Meissen. In 1788 the ‘Weißes Roß’ inn was built on the new road. Later the road was upgraded to a proper chaussee. This involved digging ditches and planting trees along the sides. Napoleon ordered these improvements.
By 1984 the Weiberstein was worn and dirty. The inscription was barely legible. A complete renewal was considered. Due to difficulties in obtaining sandstone a different solution was found. The stone was carefully reduced in size by 20mm all around. It was then polished and given a new inscription and coat of arms. The Weiberstein was unveiled on June 29 1989. This was the 900th anniversary of the House of Wettin being granted the Margraviate of Meissen.
The Weiberstein stands as a reminder. It tells a story of two women’s courage. It shows how a simple act can have lasting effects. More than just a historical marker it’s a tribute to the human spirit. It reminds us to be brave and to always speak up when needed. The Weiberstein whispers a powerful message. It’s a message of courage. A message of perseverance. A message that continues to resonate today.