Schöningen

Schöningen is a town located in the Helmstedt district of Lower Saxony, Germany. It lies on the border with Saxony-Anhalt. The town is situated in the Elm-Lappwald Nature Park, an area known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Historically, Schöningen was an important center for mining, particularly brown coal, though this industry has largely ceased. The town's origins date back to the Middle Ages, and it has a long history as a market town.

One of Schöningen's most significant archaeological discoveries is the Schöningen spears, a set of wooden spears dating back approximately 300,000 years. These are among the oldest complete hunting weapons ever found and provide crucial insights into the behavior and capabilities of early humans. The spears are displayed in the PALÄON – Center for Early Human Research and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Schöningen.

The town itself features a historic market square with a town hall and several well-preserved buildings. The local economy now focuses more on tourism, supported by the archaeological site, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Schöningen offers a glimpse into both a rich prehistoric past and a more recent industrial heritage, set within a pleasant natural landscape.