Olchauz

Olchauz is a village in the municipality of Matrossen, located in the district of Vorpommern-Rügen in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

The village is situated about 18 kilometers northwest of the town of Garz, and is accessible via the Kreisstraße 21. Olchauz is nestled in a small valley surrounded by hills and forests, and is part of the larger region of Usedom.

Historically, Olchauz has been identified as a settlement of the Slavic Sorbs, with the name "Olchauz" possibly derived from the Slavic word for "old field" or "old clearing". The village was first mentioned in written records in the 13th century, during the reign of the Saxon Duke Barnim I.

In the 19th century, agriculture and forestry were the primary industries in Olchauz, with many residents employed in these sectors. However, following World War II, many of the village's residents were displaced and the community experienced significant decline.

In the years following German reunification, efforts were made to revitalize the village and restore its historic architecture. Several of Olchauz's traditional farm buildings have been preserved and restored, showcasing the village's rich cultural heritage.

Today, Olchauz remains a small and rural community, with a smaller population compared to its historical peak. However, the village remains a tranquil and picturesque destination, offering a glimpse into Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's rural past.