Steinernes Herz, Memorial stone in Osterwald forest near Springe, Germany.
Steinernes Herz is a limestone memorial stone located on a hillside near Springe at about 280 meters elevation, standing roughly 3 meters tall and surrounded by a circle of smaller rocks. The surface displays clear geological layers from ancient times with carved inscriptions visible on its face.
Pioneers from Minden erected this stone in 1878 as a mark of their work and connection to the land. The route it marks later became formalized when the trail developed into a well-known path in the early 1900s.
The stone features a heart-shaped indent with the year 1878 and Latin words that invite walkers to pause and think. This message of reflection has touched visitors across the generations who pass by.
The stone sits about 10 meters off the main Pionierweg trail, which runs from Waldkater to Sennhütte with clear markings to guide you. The ground can be wet and slippery, so visiting during dry weather makes the short detour easier.
The limestone block contains fossil traces from the Jurassic period, millions of years old, showing what the region was like in ancient times. Geologists value this site for its well-preserved layers that you can easily see without special tools.
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