Saalequelle, Natural spring and heritage monument in Zell im Fichtelgebirge, Germany
The Saalequelle is a natural spring and heritage monument in Zell im Fichtelgebirge that emerges from a granite block wall at around 707 meters elevation in the Münchberg municipal forest. The spring outlet measures about 2 to 3 meters across and is surrounded by steep forest slopes that direct the water into the surrounding area.
The spring was jointly developed by five German cities in 1869, who documented their collaboration with a syenite plate at the site that remains there today. This marker shows the interest those cities had in managing and protecting this important water source.
The spring marks the beginning of the Saale River, an important waterway for the region. Visitors can directly observe where this river starts and how it emerges from the ground.
The spring can be reached via several forest paths from Weißenstadt, Ruppertsgrün, or Zell and has new seating areas installed during 2014 renovations. The trails are sometimes steep, so comfortable footwear is recommended, and the spot works well for a short walk through the forest.
The site combines three protection statuses: natural monument, heritage monument, and ground monument, which underscores its exceptional geological and historical significance. This combination makes the spring a rare example of a place with multiple protection purposes in the region.
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