untergraben

Untergraben is a municipality in the district of Altenburger Land, located in the state of Thuringia, Germany. It lies in the eastern part of the country, roughly 15 kilometres southeast of the district capital Altenburg and about 30 kilometres north of the larger city of Gera. The municipality covers an area of approximately 7 square kilometres and sits at an elevation of 200 metres above sea level. The surrounding landscape is characterised by gently rolling hills, agricultural fields and mixed forest, typical of the Central German lowlands.

The settlement was first documented in the early 14th century under the name “unter Graben”, referring to its position below a nearby river trench. Throughout its history, Untergraben remained a predominantly agricultural community, with farming and livestock breeding forming the main sources of livelihood. In the 19th century, the introduction of railway connections in the region facilitated modest industrial development, although the municipality retained its rural character. After the administrative reforms of the 1990s, Untergraben became part of the Altenburger Land district within the re‑established state of Thuringia.

As of the latest census, Untergraben has a population of roughly 600 inhabitants. The local government is headed by a mayor and a municipal council elected for five‑year terms. Community life is centred around traditional events such as the annual harvest festival and the local fire brigade’s celebrations. Cultural facilities include a historic wooden church dating to the 17th century and a small museum that documents the agricultural heritage of the area. Infrastructure services such as primary education, basic healthcare and public transport are provided in cooperation with neighbouring towns.