The Brausenstein Blast Furnace is the only surviving witness to the historic iron smelting industry of the so-called 'Pirnisch Eisen' district behind Pirna. This modest stone structure tucked into the Biela valley holds over 600 years of iron-working history, making it a fascinating stop for anyone curious about industrial heritage in Saxon Switzerland.

The Bielatal valley itself is a peaceful, scenic river valley wrapped in forest, offering a gentle contrast to the rugged sandstone landscapes typical of the region. In summer the walk along the Biela is shaded and green, autumn brings rich color to the surrounding woods, and in winter the old furnace ruins take on a particularly atmospheric, frost-touched charm. It is an easy destination to combine with a leisurely riverside walk.

How to get there

• From Bielatal/Berggießhübel - trail along the Biela river, approx. 30-45 minutes, easy difficulty
• Alternatively from Königstein via the Saxon Switzerland trail network

Practical information

• Information panels in front of the furnace explain the history of ironworking at this site
• The furnace was reconstructed in 1980 and renovated again in 2018
• The carved year '1700' is still visible on the furnace masonry

Built in 1693, this was one of nine hammer mills powered by the Biela river, and it survived thanks to local history enthusiasts who campaigned for its preservation in the late 1960s.