Vogtlandkreis

The Vogtlandkreis is an administrative district in southwestern Saxony, marked by forested hills, river valleys, and open meadowland. This territory stretches across several federal states and extends into northwestern Bohemia in the Czech Republic.

Markneukirchen developed into a center for instrument-making from the 17th century onward, with local artisans passing down specialized skills through generations. This tradition produced numerous workshops crafting stringed and brass instruments for European markets.

The area takes its name from the Vögte, administrators who served under the Holy Roman Empire beginning in the 12th century. This historical designation continues to shape how residents understand their regional identity today.

Two motorways, the A72 and A9, connect the territory to larger cities in the surrounding area and allow direct access by car. The Vogtlandbahn provides regular train service between Leipzig and Regensburg through the region.

The Göltzschtal Viaduct was built using 26 million bricks and reaches a height of 78 meters (256 feet). This monumental railway bridge ranks as the largest brick bridge construction worldwide.

Location: Saxony

Inception: January 1, 1996

Capital city: Plauen

Elevation above the sea: 468 m

Shares border with: Zwickau, Erzgebirgskreis, Hof, Saale-Orla-Kreis, Greiz

Website: https://vogtlandkreis.de

GPS coordinates: 50.43333,12.26667

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:25