Pleißemühlgraben, Mill race in Leipzig, Germany
The Pleißemühlgraben is a water channel in Leipzig that branches from the Pleiße River and runs through several neighborhoods. The channel stretches about 10 kilometers and links multiple former mill locations throughout the city.
The channel was dug in medieval times to provide water power for grain mills that drove the local economy. During industrialization it remained in use, continuing to serve various businesses as the city grew and changed.
The channel bears names referencing mills that once operated here and shaped the local character. These place names keep alive the memory of craftspeople who depended on this water source for their work.
The channel is accessible on foot from several entry points and connects to established walking routes throughout Leipzig. Bringing a local map helps when exploring the different sections without getting lost.
The channel still features working water gates and locks that show how medieval water control operated in practice. Visitors can observe these mechanical systems up close and see them actually managing the water flow.
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