The Walpersdorf charcoal pile is part of the charcoal burning trail. On this circular trail, visitors of all ages can learn more about the charcoal burner's trade with the help of illustrative boards. In Walpersdorf, charcoal has been made from Hauberg wood for over 200 years and was once used as an energy source for iron production and processing. Today, charcoal is mainly used for barbecues.
Over the summer, around three to four piles are built in Walpersdorf - charcoal is made from hardwoods (oak, birch and beech). After construction, the piled wood cone is covered airtight with pieces of grass. After the charcoal burner has pierced air holes in the pile, he ignites it via the central shaft. During the two-week charring process, in which the logs smoulder into charcoal, the pile must be constantly monitored and cared for. Once the pile is "cooked", it is extinguished and the charcoal is removed. Around. 4 tons of hardwood are used to produce around 1 ton of charcoal. The pile site is freely accessible at all times (however, when the charcoal is not being burned, nothing can be seen of the pile).
Visits and guided tours with a real charcoal burner by appointment
Contact: Reinhold Wagener 02737 5404 or Bruno Wagener 02737 3539