Plauen is the fifth largest town in Saxony and has nearly 66,000 inhabitants. It was mentioned for the first time in a document in 1122 and in 1224 it received town rights. In 1602 Plauen became capital of the administrative district of Vogtland. In course of industrialisation the first knitting machine was installed in Plauen in 1858. Thus the production of tulle and lace started and brought Plauen economic impetus. In 1881 the first knitting machine was built here.

Plauen lace has gained international fame some 120 years ago. Visitors who are interested in the special history of local handmade manufacturing can visit the lace museum as well as the old city hall where an exhibition about production of Plauen lace and show embroidery gives deep insight.

Lace Museum of Plauen: „Plauen lace is a concept for all those which have a distinctive sense for exclusive fashion, home textiles and noble accessories. On approx. 500 square metres are exhibited valuable textiles of the early 19th century up to the present day. Visitors learn a lot about the history of embroidery in Vogtland and other latest topics. The hall was affectionately restored after original findings with Gothic net ribbed vaults and was in 1382 for the first time mentioned in records. As an architectural place of interest it makes up the listed frame of this exhibition.“

In addition, Plauen has imposing bridges, for example the old Elster Bridge or the railway bridge that leads over brook Syrah in the valley of the same name. A mine for visitors, the malt house gallery and Vogtland‘s museum are also worth a visit.

Wonderful excursions to the surroundings are of particular interest for nature lovers and water sportsmen. Dam Pöhl is known as sailing area and nature paradise. Fans of water sports, hiking, bicycle riding, culture and culinary pleasures will love it here.

More information: http://www.plauen.com/en/index.php

Photo: Gerd Hochmuth/Shutterstock