Eisleben

Eisleben in Saxony-Anhalt is best known as the birthplace and deathplace of Martin Luther and is one of the central sites of the Reformation

During the Middle Ages, the city developed into an economically significant center thanks to mining, particularly the extraction of copper-bearing slate. At the same time, Luther’s work shaped religious and cultural history far beyond the region. Today, the Luther Sites, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as a testament to Eisleben’s significance in European history.

Martin Luther was one of the most influential figures in European history. Through his criticism of the Catholic Church and the sparking of the Reformation, he brought about lasting changes in religion, politics, and society. At the same time, his legacy is viewed today in a much more nuanced light, as some of his views are clearly unacceptable from a modern perspective:

In his treatise “On the Jews and Their Lies” (1543), he wrote, among other things: “One should set fire to their synagogues or schools.”
Luther’s view of women was strongly shaped by the ideas of his time and is seen today as patriarchal. A well-known quote of his reads: “Woman was created to serve man,” or: “Even if they give birth themselves to death, it does no harm; let them die; that is what they are for.”
Luther also expressed approval of the witch hunts. In his translation of the Old Testament (Exodus 22:17), Luther wrote: “You shall not let the sorceresses live.” The original Hebrew text uses a gender-neutral term for a person who practices magic (not necessarily female).
Nevertheless, Reformation Day is celebrated every year on October 31 in many Protestant states and commemorates Martin Luther’s posting of his theses in 1517, which is considered the beginning of the Reformation.

Sights in Eisleben

Luthers Geburtshaus

History museum UNESCO World Heritage

Ch. Matthes // CC BY 3.0

In Martin Luther's birthplace, the origins and childhood of the reformer are explored. The modern exhibition combines historical information with multimedia elements and vividly conveys the living conditions of the 15th century as well as Luther's significance for European history.
Address: Lutherstraße 15, 06295 Eisleben Lutherstraße 15, Eisleben
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Luthers Sterbehaus

The house where Martin Luther, the reformer of the Protestant church, died is located in Eisleben. The exhibition impressively conveys the last days of his life and the significance of his work. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Reformation.
Address: Andreaskirchplatz 7, 06295 Eisleben Andreaskirchplatz 7, Eisleben
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St. Petri Pauli Kirche

architecture History church

Jwaller // CC BY-SA 4.0

St. Petri-Pauli Church is one of the oldest churches in Eisleben and dominates the townscape with its striking towers. Historic architecture and sacred art are combined here with the town's long history. The church was an important religious center of the region for centuries.
Address: Petrikirchplatz 1, 06295 Eisleben Petrikirchplatz 1, Eisleben
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St. Andreaskirche

architecture History church

Dehio // CC BY-SA 3.0

St. Andrew's Church is one of the most important places where Martin Luther worked in Eisleben. This is where he preached his last sermons. The imposing late Gothic church impresses with its architecture, historical furnishings and its special significance for the history of the Reformation.
Address: Andreaskirchplatz 5, 06295 Eisleben Andreaskirchplatz 5, Eisleben
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St. Annenkirche

architecture History church art

Jörg Blobelt // CC BY-SA 4.0

St. Anne's Church impresses with its late Gothic architecture and ornate interior. The church is particularly famous for its so-called "stone picture Bible", in which numerous relief depictions tell biblical stories.

Address: Annenkirchplatz 3, 06295 Eisleben Annenkirchplatz 3, Eisleben
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