Old Salt Route

Old Salt Route

The Old Salt Route was a medieval trade route in Northern Germany, primarily used for the transport of salt. This vital commodity was moved from Lüneburg, a city rich in salt mines, to Lübeck, a significant seaport on the Baltic Sea.

History

The Old Salt Route dates back to the Middle Ages. Salt was a highly valuable resource during this period, used for preserving food, making it a crucial commodity. The route was approximately 100 kilometers long and was used to transport this "white gold" from the salt mines in Lüneburg to the seaport in Lübeck.

Route

The Old Salt Route connected various towns and cities. Starting from Lüneburg, the route passed through Mölln and Reinfeld, before finally reaching Lübeck. The salt was transported by horse and cart, and later by boat along the Steenbek and Trave rivers.

Economic Impact

The Old Salt Route played a significant role in the economic development of the regions it passed through. The trade of salt brought wealth to the cities of Lüneburg and Lübeck, which led to their growth and prosperity. The route also facilitated the exchange of other goods and ideas, contributing to the cultural and economic development of Northern Germany.

Legacy

Today, the Old Salt Route is a popular tourist trail, with many historical sites and museums along the way that provide insights into the route's rich history. The route is also a symbol of the importance of trade and the role it played in shaping societies and economies.

See Also

• Trade routes
• History of salt
• Medieval trade
• Lüneburg
• Lübeck

External Links

• Official Old Salt Route website
• Lüneburg official website
• Lübeck official website