Steinerne Rose

The Steinerne Rose is a diabase rock formation near Kloster where natural weathering has created concentric shells that resemble the petals of an opening rose blossom. These geometric patterns develop as the hard stone gradually sheds its outer layers over time.

The rock formed from lava eruptions during the Middle Devonian period roughly 400 million years ago, when this area lay beneath ancient seas. These volcanic processes continue to shape how geologists understand Thuringia's geological landscape today.

Local residents and geologists study this formation to understand the volcanic processes that shaped the Thuringian landscape over millions of years.

The formation sits about 700 meters north of Kloster village along road L 1095, just before the bridge over the former railway line. It is easy to reach and visible from the road, making a quick stop convenient during travel through the area.

The rock displays a rare exfoliation pattern where layers peel away regularly like onion skins, revealing new structures year after year. This phenomenon makes this formation an exceptional example of how diabase weathers at the surface in this region.