Striegistal: A 13th Century Mining Town in Saxony, Germany

History

Striegistal is a municipality in the district of Mittelsachsen, in Saxony, Germany. The town is situated in the Ore Mountains, on the banks of the Striegis River. Striegistal was first mentioned in 1240 as "Strigisthal". The town developed around a silver mine, which was one of the most important silver mines in Saxony in the 13th and 14th centuries. In the 16th century, the mine was closed and Striegistal became a center of lace making. The town was also home to a number of other industries, including papermaking, mining, and weaving.

Mining in Striegistal

The silver mine in Striegistal was one of the most important silver mines in Saxony in the 13th and 14th centuries. The mine was first mentioned in 1240, and by the 14th century, it was producing over 100,000 ounces of silver per year. The mine was closed in the 16th century due to a decline in silver prices. In the 19th century, the mine was reopened and operated until the early 20th century.

Striegistal Lace

In the 16th century, Striegistal became a center of lace making. The town's lace was known for its fine quality and intricate designs. Striegistal lace was exported all over Europe and was used in the clothing of kings and queens. The lace industry in Striegistal declined in the 19th century due to the invention of machine-made lace. However, the tradition of lace making in Striegistal has been revived in recent years, and the town is now home to a number of lace makers.