The Silberteich near Braunlage is an artificial pond in the Harz, set on the upper course of the Brunnenbach between Braunlage and Sankt Andreasberg. It was created in the mid-18th century as part of the so-called Oberharzer Wasserregal (upper Harz water management system), mainly to provide water power for mining in the area.
In practical terms, it was built to support the nearby ore mines, which needed a reliable water supply for their operations and machinery. Although its original mining purpose later faded, the pond remained an important feature of the landscape and was later valued as a scenic destination as well.
Today, the Silberteich is also a popular walking spot, and you can find checkpoint 148 of the Harzer Wandernadel there, on the Naturmythenpfad. That makes it a rewarding stop for anyone combining a quiet nature walk with a bit of Harz hiking culture.
Oberharzer Wasserregal
The Oberharzer Wasserregal is the historic water-management system of the Upper Harz, made up of ponds, ditches, channels and related mining works that were built over several centuries. It is better known today as the Oberharzer Wasserwirtschaft, and it was developed to capture, store and direct water across the hilly landscape for mining purposes.
Its main job was to power the silver mines. Water drove wheels that helped with ore extraction, drainage and lifting heavy loads, and in a region where mining depended on reliable energy, this system was extraordinarily effective. It was important not only because it kept the mines working, but also because it became one of the largest and most sophisticated pre-industrial energy systems anywhere in the world.
What makes it especially impressive is the scale: the surviving heritage area includes more than a hundred historic ponds and many kilometres of ditches and watercourses. This engineering network was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, underlining its outstanding value for industrial and cultural history.
Today, some of the most rewarding places to visit are the Dammgraben, the many hill ponds around Clausthal-Zellerfeld and Buntenbock, the 19-Lachter-Stollen in Wildemann, the Grube Samson in Sankt Andreasberg, and the Schacht Kaiser Wilhelm II and Ottiliae shaft in Clausthal-Zellerfeld. Walks and themed trails let visitors see the system in action, while several sections still serve practical purposes such as water supply, flood protection and recreation.
Silberteich
Braunlage
Germany
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