Betriebsgaststätte Grünberg
THE ABANDONED INN IN GERMANY
Explore the hidden history of Betriebsgaststätte Grünberg, an abandoned gem nestled in the picturesque village of Grünberg in the Ore Mountains of Germany. This forgotten inn, once bustling with life, served as a haven for employees of the VEB Ketten und Nagelwerke during the tumultuous times of the German Democratic Republic (DDR).
Located a mere 1.5 kilometers north of Augustusburg, Grünberg offers stunning views and a deep cultural history. Just outside the village, we discovered Betriebsgaststätte Grünberg, a place frozen in time.
VEB Ketten und Nagelwerke
The industrious Nolle brothers, Carl and Ernst, established VEB Ketten und Nagelwerke in 1891 as a hardware trading company, producing essential nails and chains for various sectors including agriculture, industry, and shipbuilding. The company thrived until its nationalization in 1948, underwent significant changes, and transformed into a state-owned enterprise that played a pivotal role in the socialist economy of the DDR.
Betriebsgaststätte
The Betriebsgaststätte Grünberg stood as a testament to the company’s commitment to its workforce. From 1948 until the reunification of Germany, this inn provided accommodation and dining facilities for employees. It was offering them respite from their demanding work at the nearby factory. With its cozy atmosphere and warm hospitality, it was more than just a place to eat and sleep. It was a community hub where colleagues forged bonds and shared stories amidst the backdrop of political upheaval.
Today, as we venture into its abandoned corridors, they are greeted by the remnants of a bygone era. Crumbling walls and decaying furniture bear witness to the passage of time, while traces of the inn’s former glory evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. I visited Betriebsgaststätte Grünberg, a relic of DDR history, in 2019. Follow this link for more abandoned hotels.
