Lichterfelde, Saxony-Anhalt facts for kids

Lichterfelde is a special place in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. It used to be its own small town, called a municipality. But since January 1, 2010, Lichterfelde became part of a bigger area called Altmärkische Wische. This means it's now one of the villages within that larger community.

About Lichterfelde

Lichterfelde is a quiet and charming village located in the northern part of Saxony-Anhalt. It's known for its green surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. Even though it's now part of Altmärkische Wische, it still keeps its unique local feel. The village has a small population, making it a close-knit community where people often know their neighbors.

Where is Lichterfelde?

Lichterfelde is situated in the historic region of the Altmark. This area is famous for its beautiful landscapes, including rolling fields and small forests. It's not far from the Elbe River, which is one of Germany's major rivers. Being in the Altmark means Lichterfelde is part of a region with a long history and many traditional villages.

History of Lichterfelde

Lichterfelde has a history that goes back many centuries. Like many villages in this part of Germany, it likely started as a small farming settlement. Over time, it grew, and people built homes, a church, and other important buildings.

Early Days

Records suggest that Lichterfelde was first mentioned in documents from the Middle Ages. During these times, life was mostly about farming and living off the land. Villages like Lichterfelde were important centers for local communities. They often had a church, which was the heart of the village.

Becoming a Municipality

For many years, Lichterfelde functioned as an independent municipality. This meant it had its own local government. Local officials made decisions about things like roads, schools, and community services for the people living there. This independence allowed the village to manage its own affairs and develop according to its needs.

Life in Lichterfelde

Life in Lichterfelde is typical of a small German village. It's a calm place, perfect for those who enjoy nature and a slower pace of life.

Community and Activities

Even though it's small, Lichterfelde has a strong sense of community. Residents often participate in local events and clubs. There might be a volunteer fire department, a sports club, or a local history group. These activities help bring people together and keep the village spirit alive. Children in Lichterfelde would likely attend schools in nearby larger towns, but they would grow up enjoying the safety and open spaces of village life.

Local Governance Before Merger

Before 2010, Lichterfelde had its own elected council and a mayor. These local leaders were responsible for managing the village's budget and services. They worked to ensure that residents had access to things like clean water, waste collection, and well-maintained public spaces. The decisions made by the municipality directly affected the daily lives of its citizens.

Becoming Part of Altmärkische Wische

The decision for Lichterfelde to join Altmärkische Wische was part of a larger trend in Germany. Many smaller municipalities have merged with their neighbors.

Why Municipalities Merge

There are several reasons why small towns decide to merge. One big reason is to share resources. By joining a larger municipality, smaller villages can often get better services. For example, it might be easier to fund a new school, a better library, or more efficient public transport when resources are pooled. It can also help streamline administration and make local government more effective. The goal is often to ensure that all residents, no matter how small their village, have access to good public services.

Lichterfelde Today

Today, Lichterfelde continues to be a vibrant part of Altmärkische Wische. While it no longer has its own independent government, its unique identity and history are still cherished by its residents. It contributes to the larger community of Altmärkische Wische, helping to make the entire region a great place to live.