Peißen is a municipality (Gemeinde) in the district of Salzlandkreis, located in the federal state of Saxony‑Anhalt, Germany. It is situated on the left bank of the river Saale, approximately 10 km east of the district capital, Bernburg, and about 30 km southeast of the state capital, Magdeburg.
Geography
Peißen covers an area of roughly 12.5 km². The terrain is characterized by low‑lying plains typical of the Saale valley, with agricultural land dominating the surrounding landscape. The municipality lies at an elevation of about 70 meters above sea level.
Administrative status
Peißen is part of the Verbandsgemeinde (collective municipality) Saale‑Wipper. The local council (Gemeinderat) is elected every five years, and the mayor (Bürgermeister) serves as the chief executive of the municipality. As of the most recent election cycle, the mayor is Thomas Krüger (term 2022–2029).
Demographics
According to the statistical office of Saxony‑Anhalt, the population of Peißen was 1,365 inhabitants as of 31 December 2019. The municipality has experienced modest demographic change in recent decades, reflecting broader trends of rural population stability and slight decline in the region.
History
The settlement of Peißen was first documented in medieval records, with the earliest known mention dating to the 12th century. Historically, the area was part of the Prince‑Bishopric of Halberstadt and later incorporated into the Kingdom of Prussia following the reorganization of German territories in the early 19th century. After World War II, Peißen became part of the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) and, following German reunification in 1990, was integrated into the state of Saxony‑Anhalt.
Economy and infrastructure
The local economy is predominantly based on agriculture, small‑scale manufacturing, and services catering to the surrounding rural community. Peißen is accessible via regional road networks, with the Bundesstraße 246 running nearby. Public transport is provided by regional bus services that connect the municipality with Bernburg and other neighboring towns.
Cultural and notable sites
- St. Johannes Church: A historic Protestant church whose core structure dates back to the 13th century, featuring later Baroque modifications.
- Saale River promenade: A short stretch along the Saale offering recreational opportunities and scenic views.
References
- Statistical Office of Saxony‑Anhalt, population figures (as of 31 December 2019).
- Official website of the Verbandsgemeinde Saale‑Wipper.
No additional reliable encyclopedic sources were found to expand further on specific historical events, notable personalities, or detailed economic data for Peißen.
