Discover Tanna: Embroidery History and Leitenteiche Ponds
Accommodation in Tanna
Tanna combines a distinctive embroidery history with opportunities to relax in nature and enjoy active days. Red brick houses point to the former embroidery industry, while St. Andrew’s Church, with preserved structural elements from its predecessor, represents another period in the town’s history. South of the town centre, the Leitenteiche ponds offer a seasonal attraction: swimming takes centre stage in summer, while the focus is on peace and quiet outside the bathing season. When searching for a holiday apartment, consider whether cultural history, summer relaxation or hiking should be the focus of your stay.
Church and Embroidery History
St. Andrew’s Church stands on a small hill in Tanna. It burned down in 1640 and was subsequently rebuilt. The main entrance, with a cross set in a stone surround, and the cross-vaulted ceiling at the rear have survived from the predecessor building. The fire and rebuilding are therefore part of the church’s history, as are the elements that remain from the older structure.
Tanna’s many red brick houses also tell the story of its past: they once housed embroidery workshops. In the 19th century, embroidery became the town’s most important industry. Embroidered goods such as Plauen lace were produced in Tanna until 2010, along the eponymous Embroidery Trail. The houses, industry and products reveal different aspects of the town’s economic and craft history.
Leitenteiche Ponds and Trails
The Leitenteiche local recreation area lies south of Tanna’s town centre. In summer, a newly built access point invites visitors to swim; during the rest of the year, the emphasis is on idyllic tranquillity and relaxation. The area therefore offers different attractions depending on the season. Check current conditions and facilities before swimming.
The Tanna Circular Hiking Trail is well developed and signposted. Check locally for the current trail conditions and signage. Rosenbühl and Pechhütte are also scenic places to explore on foot; Rosenbühl additionally has a summit logbook. The Tanna area also offers riding holidays and designated bridleways for active days away. Check in advance which options are available on your travel dates.
Running Event, Festival and Local Stories
The Tanna New Year’s Eve Run was held annually from 1971 onwards. Routes ranged from 1 to 10 kilometres; if you plan to take part, check the programme for the relevant edition, as details may vary from one year to another. The Saale-Orla Hundred also offers a point of interest for runners: on its 100-kilometre route, a refreshment point with drinks, food and toilets is listed at kilometre 50.7, by the Tanna gym. Before setting out, check whether support will be available for your event.
The Stelzen Festival near Reuth was held annually as a music festival in the village of Stelzen from 1993 onwards. Its programme included internationally acclaimed artists, farm machinery symphonies and fireworks accompanied by music. If the festival is relevant to your travel plans, check the specific dates and programme. Another trace of local history can also be found in Stelzen: a tree stump now set in concrete marks the former site of the Stelzen Tree, which broke in a severe storm in 1897.
In Rothenacker, a district of the municipality of Tanna, the “Learned Farmer” Museum is a notable visitor attraction. Check current opening arrangements before planning a visit. The church, traces of the embroidery industry and the various destinations in the municipality offer different ways to shape your stay.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Neundorf, Remptendorf, Knau, Kospoda, Altengesees, Pößneck, Wurzbach, Bucha.
Return to the main travel guide: Saale-Orla.
