Grinding: A Time-Honored Practice Stands the Test of Time in Lüneburg, Germany
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Ancient grinding techniques thriving in Lüneburg city. - ancient artisans' practice of grinding minerals and materials in the vicinity of Lüneburg
Step back in time at the charming mill in Bardowick, Lüneburg, where grinding is still done the old-fashioned way - on demand. Running the business for six generations, Eckhard Meyer comments, "There were once 15,000 windmills in Germany, now there are only five that are commercially operational."
The historic mill, a gallery Holländer, with expansive wings, hums with activity. They grind two to three tons of grain daily, a feat only achievable through electricity and the wind power harnessed from the nostalgic mill sails.
"This only works in a niche," admits the 57-year-old. "We’d have lost the competition with the industry tomorrow if it wasn't for the charm and regional roots we offer."
The mill's secret to success? A rustic farm shop, cozy café, and the processing of nine different types of grain, especially the resurgence of old varieties. "I think the customers want to support someone who stands for the product," says Meyer. The online sales are due to kick off this week.
Set for a busy milling festival, the operation continues to employ traditional grinding methods, dating back to the mill's construction in 1813. Son Juro, fresh from earning his master's exam in Stuttgart, looks forward to continuing the family business one day.
In a bid to ensure the operation's longevity, the family is considering the rebuilding of a second historic mill. "We're exploring financing options for this major project," explains Meyer. "If successful, it would be a unique find in Germany."
With 35 employees catering to the production, farm shop, and inn, wife Ilka Meyer-Telschow prepares for the anticipated milling festival on Monday. Last year, around 5,000 visitors graced the site, making it a must-see for locals and tourists alike.
In addition to the café with its repurposed half-timbered houses, the festival offers a range of attractions, including horse-drawn field plowing demonstrations, traditional roofer workshops, and over 20 stands showcasing artwork by local artists. Kids can try grinding grain by hand, guided tours are available, and a church community service takes place in the old mill barn before the festivities begin.
- Lüneburg
- Craftsmanship
- Germany
In a world where tradition and modernity converge, Lüneburg stands out as a testament to the enduring spirit of traditional craftsmanship. While the mechanism may have adapted to accommodate contemporary tastes and technologies, the town thrives on preserving its cultural heritage, fostering a vibrant community, and nurturing an appreciation for the artisanal work that keeps history alive.
- The community in Lüneburg, Germany continues to uphold traditional practices like grinding, as demonstrated by the family-run mill in Bardowick.
- Visitors to the milling festival in Lüneburg can enjoy a variety of attractions that showcase local craftsmanship, including demonstrations of horse-drawn plowing and traditional roofing workshops.
- Apart from traditional products like food and drink, the mill in Lüneburg offers vocational training in the form of different types of grain processing, providing an opportunity for lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, travel, and general-news enthusiasts to appreciate the art of grinding.
