Rare natural phenomenon on northern Germany's highest peak
When fog drifts over the peaks of the Brocken and the light of dusk bathes the landscape in a faint glow, a huge shadowy figure can appear in the sky. This so-called Brocken Spectre was once seen as a mystical sign and filled the inhabitants of the Harz Mountains with fear and wonder.
Back when the Harz was still sparsely populated and miners worked underground, many legends revolved around witches, devils, mountain spirits, or dwarves. They helped to explain mysterious phenomena. One of these stories told of a woman who wanted to drive travellers away from the Brocken – yet in fact, a real natural phenomenon is behind it.
The effect was first described on the Brocken in 1780 by Johann Esaias Silberschlag. It occurs when the shadow of an observer falls onto fog or clouds. Since the shadow does not fall on a solid surface but is reflected by countless tiny water droplets, it appears greatly enlarged and hard to grasp. The movement of the swirling mist enhances this impression – the shadow seems alive.
Sometimes a glory, a halo of light around the shadow, also forms. To witness this phenomenon, the sun, fog and position must align perfectly. That’s why the Brocken Spectre remains a rare experience, even for the seasoned staff of the National Park.
This effect can also be seen on other mountains, and even artificially – for example with car headlights or neon light. But at 1,141 metres, the Brocken offers the best conditions, especially on foggy autumn days or just before sunset.