Schildhornsage, Medieval legend in Grunewald, Germany
The Schildhornsage is a medieval legend from Grunewald in Berlin that tells of a Slavic prince who crossed the Havel River and left his shield hanging on a tree. A commemorative monument now marks this location, inviting visitors to explore the tale.
The roots of this story lie in the 12th century, when Slavic and German principalities fought for control over Brandenburg. The legend itself was not written down until 1730 and captures a symbolic moment from that turbulent era.
This legend tells of a Slavic prince whose shield hung on an oak tree and became a symbol for the blending of Slavic and German traditions in the region. The story is still shared by locals today as part of their connection to Berlin's layered past.
The site is located in Grunewald and is accessible via marked walking paths that wind through the forest and are suitable for a casual stroll. It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes and check the trails before your visit in case maintenance work is underway.
The historian who documented this tale in 1730 initially placed the event near Potsdam rather than at its current location. This shifting geography reveals how legends migrate and attach themselves to different places over time.
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