Discover Anrode: Monastic history in the surrounding area
Accommodation in Anrode
The former Cistercian monastery of Anrode lies close to the village, in the valley of the Luhne and Gieße rivers, in front of the Hollau woodlands. The valley and woodlands provide a scenic setting for a place with a rich history.
Monastic history and a market nearby
In the 13th century, the newly founded monastery brought new life to the old church village on this site. During the Peasants’ War in the 16th century, Anrode Monastery was attacked and plundered; a fire destroyed it down to its foundations. In 1810, the convent was closed by decree. These events make the nearby monastery site a special destination for anyone interested in the region’s history.
The stables are also part of the present-day story of the monastery grounds: they are used for a monthly livestock and farmers’ market. From March to October, the market takes place on the second Saturday of each month. If you plan to visit, schedule your trip around this seasonal window and regular monthly date.
Culture and activities in Dingelstädt
Dingelstädt, the wider destination, brings together festival culture, cycling and architectural history. The Breikuchen Festival has been celebrated as a town festival every summer since 2001. The programme includes traditional events organised by local associations, shows, musical performances and food. This makes a visit particularly appealing in summer.
The Kanonenbahn cycle path offers another way to experience the area. It is considered easy to ride and runs for about 32 kilometres from Dingelstädt in the Eichsfeld district of Thuringia to Frieda in the Werra-Meißner district of Hesse. The route includes six tunnels and four bridges. The Breikuchen Festival takes place in summer; the cycle path is a separate route option, with distinctive structural features.
Churches and architectural history
The present-day parish church of St Gertrudis was consecrated in 1855 as a three-aisled Gothic-style church. The first church on its site was documented as early as the 14th century, though when it was built is unknown. The present-day parish church is the third known church on this site.
Secular architecture offers its own highlights: the mill complex at Mühlhäuser Straße 11 has an imposing Renaissance building and an elaborately designed portal. The pilgrimage church “Maria im Busch” takes its name from a slope that was once covered with bushes. Together, these buildings offer different perspectives on Dingelstädt’s cultural history.
Another attraction in Dingelstädt is the revitalised UnstrutWelle indoor swimming pool. It reopened in September 2026 and is open to visitors year-round. It is worth checking the latest operating information before your visit.
Choose the right focus for your trip
When choosing a holiday apartment in Anrode, you could first consider whether you want your stay to focus on the monastic history and seasonal market nearby, or whether you would also like to include the cultural and activity offerings of Dingelstädt, the wider destination. The market and Breikuchen Festival take place on set dates; the cycle path and architectural history offer different points of interest.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Großvargula, Flarchheim, Schönstedt, Schlotheim, Herbsleben, Blankenburg, Altengottern and Bad Langensalza.
Back to the main travel overview: Unstrut-Hainich.
