During extensive construction work in what is now the town center of the former monastery complex in Ebrach, a wooden water pipe was discovered north of the Marienturm in 2025. The oak used was felled in 1321 and then lay in the ground as a water conduit for a good 700 years without decaying. When it was drilled into and used in the structure, the tree was about 180 years old. When the acorn sprouted (whether it did so on its own or was deliberately planted, we cannot know), the monks were just beginning to establish their newly founded monastery (*1127) in the Steigerwald…

“Thedike systemis not only a wonderful example of the Ebrach monks’ expertise as masters of hydraulic engineering, butit also serves as a testament that brings to life the nine centuries that have passed since the monastery was founded in 1127!” Dr. Rosa Karl, site manager of the Ebrach Monastery Landscape.

The wooden pipe will be on display starting in 2027 at the Information Center in the Orangery in the Upper Abbey Garden in Ebrach. As a sneak preview, it will be featured on November 14, 26—Tourism Day—as part of the “History in Your Luggage” series at the Ebrach Monastery Complex.

There are also free guided tours of the Ebrach Stadthöfe and two new adventure courses—come check them out. It’s worth it ;-)!

Bamberg Tourism and the Bamberg District cordially invite all locals to “Tourism Day – A Trip Home”! Discover Bamberg and the Bamberg region on this day from a tourist’s perspective and let yourself be inspired. This year’s theme is “A Story in Your Luggage.”

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Bamberg Tourist Information, Geyerswörthstraße 5

Program highlights:

• Special exhibits from the museums
• Free introductory tours of the city
• Surprising stories
• Contest with attractive prizes
• Coffee & light snacks at the Tourist Information office, as well as beverages from the Sauer Brewery

We look forward to an exciting day full of experiences!