Located where Germany meets Poland and the Czech Republic, this small city has colorful 18th-century houses, cobblestone streets and a central park. Independent shops and cafes line its historic center.
Zittau lies at the intersection of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic in eastern Saxony. You can admire the 1472 Great Lenten Cloth with its 90 biblical scenes, walk past Renaissance fountains like the Mars-topped Roland Fountain, or take a narrow-gauge steam train through the Zittau Mountains. The city's Italian-style Town Hall and medieval Salt House reflect its past as a wealthy trading center.
The Great Lenten Cloth and Religious Art
The Great Zittau Lenten Cloth from 1472 measures 8.2 meters high and 6.8 meters wide, with 90 detailed biblical scenes painted on linen. You'll find it in the Church of the Holy Cross, displayed in a custom-built glass case. A second, smaller Lenten cloth tells the crucifixion story - one of only six such artifacts remaining in the world.
Market Square Buildings
The Market Square's centerpiece is the Town Hall, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel between 1840 and 1845 in Italian palazzo style. Next to it stands the Salt House from 1511, which began as an armory and horse stable before becoming a storehouse. Today, local shops occupy the ground floor, and vendors sell regional products at the weekly market. From St. John's Church's 60-meter tower, you can see across the city and into the Zittau Mountains.
Renaissance Fountains
Six fountains from different periods decorate the city center. The Roland Fountain (1585) shows the Roman god Mars, while the Green Fountain and Fountain of the Samaritan Woman date from 1679. The Hercules Fountain (1708) displays intricate baroque details. The Swan Fountain (1710) and Little Grinder's Fountain (early 19th century) complete this collection of water features.
Mountain Railways and Nature
A narrow-gauge railway connects Zittau with Oybin and Jonsdorf. The train route winds past sandstone cliffs and volcanic peaks in the Zittau Mountains. Walking trails lead through areas where marsh marigolds and martagon lilies grow. Wildlife in the nature park includes roe deer, badgers, and peregrine falcons.
Universities and Student Life
Two universities bring 3,500 students to Zittau. The International Graduate School conducts ecological research, while the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences focuses on engineering, management, and social studies. Both schools maintain partnerships with Polish and Czech institutions, taking advantage of the city's location near three borders.
