Calamine flowers

The unique Galmei violet on the Schlangenberg

From May to August, the Schlangenberg nature reserve shines in delicate yellow. This joyful surprise is due to the so-called galmei violet. The small violet plant is by no means a daffodil and is also not a new phenomenon in the region. However, it is a real rarity!

The calamine violet:

• only grows on soils containing heavy metals
• takes its name from the production of galmei (galmei = zinc ore)
• only occurs in the Aachen region worldwide and refers to its economic history
• has an astonishingly long flowering period (May to August)
• is under the highest possible European protection

The Schlangenberg nature reserve is therefore worth a visit for the galmei violet alone. But its surroundings will not disappoint you either. The gentle green hill of the Schlangenberg with its narrow paths is ideal for a long walk. Family-friendly hiking trails lead you over the 276-metre-high mountain. Keep your eyes peeled during your visit, as there is plenty of wildlife to observe.

The Schlangenberg nature reserve is known for:

• its 340 butterfly and ten dragonfly species
• four reptile and seven amphibian species
• its 108 hectares in size
• the eponymous Schlangenberg
• its history of ore mining in Stolberg

Have fun discovering and experiencing the Schlangenberg!