Lübbenau – in the Sorbian language: Lubnjow (Błota) in the region Niederlausitz (Lower Lusatia) is located near the centre of the biosphere reserve Spreewald (Forest of the River Spree). Lübbenau is also known as the Gate to the Spreewald. The Lower Sorbian name of Spreewald is Błota - for swamp. The Spreewald is an area of more than 480 square kilometres with more than 200 small canals (Fließe) that sum up to a total length of about 1300 kilometres. The Spreewald is an area of major touristic interest. It’s a great region for canoeing and kayaking. For less sportive visitors punting tours are offered with punting boats large enough for more than 15 passengers. The Spreewald is also famous for its gherkins, its horseradish and its very tasty linseed oil. The most important buildings are: Castel Lübbenau - main building in classicist style, later additions, Protestant church St. Nikolai - built in baroque style 1738 to 1741, Spreewaldmuseum - a museum in a gatehouse built in 1850, the small Spreewald harbour and the large Spreewald harbour - both mainly for large punting boats for guided tours of the Spreewald. Ehm Welk was a poet that lived in Lübbenau.