Did you know? Great-grandfather Lutherstadt Wittenberg­ of the mobile phone 1610 Beer boots isn’t just famous for In 1833, Carl Friedrich Gauss teamed up with Wilhelm Michael Stifel, a priest and friend of Luther’s, proclaimed that the ­Weber to design and build the first ­electromagnetic telegraph. A medical first world would end on 19 October 1533. When his ­prediction failed Luther’s 95 Theses! ­Wilhelm Weber, one of the town’s most famous sons, was born at On 21 April 1610, barber Jeremias to materialise, people made fun of him in a drinking song. And Schlossstrasse 10. Trautmann performed the first since his surname meant ‘boot’, what better­ way to celebrate his ­Here’s a selection­ of some documented Caesarean section failed prophecy than to drink beer out of said footwear?! of the other surprising­ in history. ­stories and fascinating facts about the town. 973 The present-day territory of Lutherstadt Wittenberg first entered recorded history. 1915 Four In April the foundation stone The poisoner’s was laid in Wittenberg for what is today Germany’s largest producer of ammonia and urea. in a row Berlin or Leipzig? Thanks hand Lutherstadt Wittenberg The poisoner Susanne to the Intercity-Express Zimmermann killed two husbands rail link, you can enjoy a and three children, along with is the only place in a sister-in-law and nursemaid. ­relaxing ­breakfast in the the world­ with four* Even today, her mummified hand ­German ­capital, have lunch continues to scare young and old 30 alike at the Municipal Collections in Lutherstadt­ Wittenberg, 1938 UNESCO World (Staedtische Sammlungen). The town was officially renamed minutes and dance the night away in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Heritage Sites on the ­Leipzig! same street.

Do you speak The Luther Oak The Luther Oak stands at the 1502 Luther? southern end of Collegienstrasse at Expressions coined by Martin Luther have permeated the German language. Glutton Education for all Sayings like “to move a mountain” and “pride comes ­before a fall” have even the very spot where Martin Luther Jakob Kahle from Wittenberg ate anything he could The first university established by a territorial crept into English. Other more colourful ones are still used nowadays in burned the papal bull in 1520. lay his hands on, including glass, nails and firewood. lord rather than by the church was established German without a second thought, such as “fits like a fist on the eye” and “to When he died in 1753, his body was dissected in in Wittenberg in 1502. The reputation of the bite the sour apple” – which in English has evolved into “bite the bullet”. the university’s anatomical theatre. The resulting Leucorea surpassed that of all other universi- When it comes to ­expressing human­ characteristics, hardly anyone has man­ dissertation was entitled ‘The glutton and omnivore of ties in Germany at the time. aged to “hit the nail on the head” as well as Luther (although that wasn’t Wittenberg’. one of his!).

– 2 – – 3 – PUBLISHER BY Lutherstadt Wittenberg Marketing GmbH MANAGING DIRECTOR Johannes Winkelmann PROJECT MANAGER Franka List EDITORIAL TEAM Lutherstadt Wittenberg Marketing GmbH

1st revised edition 2017

PHOTO CREDITS

Unless otherwise stated, the rights to all photographs reproduced in this brochure are held by Lutherstadt Wittenberg Marketing GmbH (photographers: Johannes Winkelmann, Corinna Kroll, Jan P. Pajak, Jörg P. Pajak). p. 4: Green light for industry © SKW Stickstoffwerke Piesteritz GmbH, p. 6: Arsenal © Arsenal, p. 9: Bath tub © Frank Sommer, Andreas Siewert, p. 11: Graffiti © Achim Kuhn, p. 13: Theses Door at Castle Church © Investitions- und Marketinggesellschaft Sachsen-Anhalt mbH, p. 17: Busts of Luther and Melanchthon © WelterbeRegion Anhalt-Dessau-Wittenberg e. V., Sarah Filz, p. 17 Asisi Panorama, interior photo © Tom Schulze, pp. 22–23: Interior photo © Shutterstock, p. 28: Aerial photo © SKW Stickstoffwerke Piesteritz GmbH, p. 30: Tomato© Shutterstock, p. 31: Tank trailer© Feldbinder Spezialfahrzeugwerke GmbH, p. 33: Masters’ Houses © Christoph Petras Aerial view of Lutherstadt Wittenberg The town of the Reformation

6 12 16 20 26 32 A compact town Museums and Town of Living, working and exhibitions ­conferences and relaxing surrounded by Wittenberg’s greatest conventions history has shaped the historical treasures Lutherstadt Wittenberg attitude to life here are on show at six muse- has always been a hub of ums and a panorama dialogue

8 18 28 A new spirit found Green town A region its home Lutherstadt Wittenberg like no other Lutherstadt Wittenberg is not just surrounded by Lutherstadt Wittenberg remains the cradle of a beautiful countryside – is the perfect base to In 1996, UNESCO simultaneously granted four locations in Lutherstadt new Protestant faith – to it’s also one of explore the World Wittenberg the title ‘World Heritage Site’. Largely undamaged during World the greenest towns in this day Heritage region War II, world history is able to live on in this Renaissance town at the homes Germany of Anhalt-Dessau- Wittenberg of Luther, Melanchthon and Cranach. 14 A spectacular year A world of wonders 22 Green light for Anyone looking from the direction of the Reformation in the 16th century. Since this In Lutherstadt Active and relaxing industry 34 Renaissance living famous Elbe meadows towards the silhouette time, life here has been shaped by an atmos­ Wittenberg, life is recreation in the The history of the town Right at the centre of the town today will see the unchanged phere of tolerance and discourse. The town celebrated out on the Biosphere Reserve Anyone seeking a sometimes overshadows towers of Castle Church (Schlosskirche) is located at the heart of Germany, with streets stylish, affordable and the fact that important of things and Town Church (Stadtkirche). Both have excellent transport links to major cities such convenient place to live industries have located Firmly integrated will find a new home in here – and with great into the region’s shaped the townscape since Luther’s time as Berlin, Leipzig and Halle. Surrounded Lutherstadt Wittenberg success infrastructure when Wittenberg gained its world-historical by a unique natural and cultural landscape, importance, which continues to have an Lutherstadt Wittenberg offers its residents a 10 Historical mile impact today. distinctive place to live. Thanks to a stable No chance to get Four UNESCO World 24 Conference and convention facilities have economy, a growing number of people are bored Heritage Sites can be been created in the historical walls. New finding training, job opportunities and found in close proximity A place of Culture is part and here education venues provide room for cultural events, career prospects here. Once the ‘Rome of the parcel of everyday life while new educational establishments North’, today it is a cultural and historical here Lutherstadt Wittenberg is a town of learning, satisfy the growing need for continuing and gem with great economic potential. Let this the origin of enlightened further education. Wittenberg retains the brochure guide you through our town – and thought character of a town of culture with histori­ who knows, perhaps you’ll also be seduced cal roots reaching back to the time of the by Lutherstadt Wittenberg!

– 4 – – 5 – The Beyerhof courtyard at Markt 6 has its own brewery, encouraging visitors to linger for a while.

A compact town

Living, working and relaxing surrounded by history

Lutherstadt Wittenberg is a modern, pleasant place to live. Fortunately, it survived World War II almost totally unscathed and was left untouched by socialist urban redevelopment. Consequently, it has retained all of its original charm. Today it is a place where it is still possible to live, work and relax in harmony.

Open streams flow through the town cen- taste. There is hardly anywhere else in tre, while shady old town courtyards offer Germany where culture and nature blend the perfect retreat for conversation or read- together with such ease into a relaxing and ing on hot days. It is not just tourists who eventful location. stroll through the streets; they are joined by graduates and guests of the Protestant A zest for life Seminary, Colleg Wittenberg, Leucorea, So it is no wonder that more and more the Wittenberg Centre for Global Ethics people are deciding to move here to the and other educational institutions. In short: Elbe region. Everyday life is affordable, Lutherstadt Wittenberg has remained major cities such as Berlin and Leipzig can a well-educated town in the best sense of be reached within half an hour thanks to the word. outstanding transport links, and the town and its immediate surroundings are able to Big culture, big nature offer increasingly attractive job opportuni- Just a stone’s throw away are the Elbe ties. Lutherstadt Wittenberg is continuing meadows where visitors can enjoy a won- to grow as an industrial, administrative and derful natural landscape, the ‘UNESCO service centre for the entire region. World Natural Heritage Site Middle Elbe On weekends, residents make the most of Centrally located is the Arsenal, a shopping Biosphere Reserve’, with ancient trees and the many leisure opportunities: the Cranach mall which blends harmoniously into its old river arms to delight the eye. Back in the Courtyards, Stadthaus or Exerzierhalle town surroundings. Combined with the shops of the town centre, Lutherstadt Wittenberg offers town, there are many events for visitors as cultural centres with historical back- more than 325 shops as well as a diverse selection to enjoy: concerts, conventions, historical grounds, the swimming pools, the zoo, the of cafés and restaurants. Anyone wanting to take a relaxed stroll will certainly get their money’s festivals, as well as high-quality shopping butterfly park, kayaking trips on the Elbe, worth. opportunities and restaurants to suit every sports facilities, and lots more besides.

– 6 – – 7 – A spectacular year

In Lutherstadt Wittenberg, life is

Left: Celebrating Luther’s Wedding with Katharina and Martin celebrated out Right: Pageant on the streets of the old town on the streets The year at a glance

For more details, visit: www.lutherstadt-wittenberg.de/veranstaltungen May • Lily of the Valley Festival Like pearls on a string, a never-ending series of events • Cycling Festival takes place in Lutherstadt Wittenberg throughout the year, including festivals, conventions and concerts. In the June • Luther’s Wedding summer, visitors and residents alike flock to the many www.lutherhochzeit.de spectacles outside on the streets. July/August Many citizens are dedicated to ensuring that the town is able to • Courtyard Concerts offer a completely new and unique cultural experience every year – (Hofkonzerte) with complete success. The ‘Wittenberg Summer of Culture’ brings • Wine Festival 180,000 visitors to the town every year. Together with the locals, • Comedy Festival they attend events such as Adventure Night, a night when special • Adventure Night art and musical spectacles can be seen at many locations through- (Erlebnisnacht) www.wittenberger- out Wittenberg’s old town. The night draws to a close with erlebnisnacht.de Luther’s Wedding a spectacular firework display. It has been almost five hundred years Throughout the summer, one cultural event follows another: September since former monk Martin Luther mar- high-profile concerts at the churches, the Lily of the Valley Festival, • Pottery Market ried Katharina von Bora, a nun who had Courtyard Concerts, Luther’s Wedding, the Wine Festival, • Wittenberg Festival of Light escaped from a convent. Every year in June, the Pottery Market and the Cabaret Festival. the residents of Wittenberg and visitors By the way, live comedy today has one of its strongholds in October/November to the town celebrate this occasion with a Lutherstadt Wittenberg and justifiably so – for Martin Luther • Renaissance Music Festival huge festival. They wear caps, gowns, cloaks was a master at presenting major problems in simplified form and www.wittenberger- or doublets, practise old crafts, play replica posing questions with a twinkle in his eye. renaissancemusik.de instruments from the Renaissance, roast • Reformation Festival www.wittenberger- pork on a spit and enjoy beer and wine. The Reformation at the heart of the town reformationsfest.de Throughout the historic old town, widely It could be said that the Reformation Festival on 31 October is travelled traders and landlords set up shop the spiritual and cultural highlight of the town’s year. Lutherstadt with their wares at the original locations of Wittenberg celebrates this starting point for the Reformation in December the Luther era as jugglers and musicians en- Germany with special church services, concerts and lectures. At the • Christmas Market in Wittenberg old town and in tertain the crowds. Lutherstadt Wittenberg historical market spectacle, jugglers, musicians and gypsies cavort the Advent courtyards expects to welcome 100,000 visitors over through the streets of the old town to the market square – bright, the three days of the festival in June. loud, colourful and just as bold and eloquent as the Reformers once For highlights of the Reformation Jubilee in 2017, www.lutherhochzeit.de were. please go to www.r2017.org

– 8 – – 9 – Street Art Festival on Arsenalplatz

No chance to get bored

Culture is part and parcel of everyday life in Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Lutherstadt Wittenberg is a The town is also home to many cultural prime example of living culture. organisations which ensure that there is Here historical anniversaries always something of interest going on: the follow in quick succession. Phönix-Theaterwelt, the comedy and revue stage at CLACK-Theater, the art school in the Cranach Courtyard, the Student Big And it is not just annual events such as Band from Luther-Melanchthon Grammar Luther’s Wedding or the Reformation School, etc., etc. There are also sculpture Festival that are celebrated. Major anniver- and graphics workshops, courtyard concerts saries recognised in 2015 include the 500th and the stages of the Summer Cabaret birthday of Lucas Cranach the Younger, Festival. As Martin Luther once said: “If which transformed the town into ‘Cranach you are not allowed to laugh in heaven, City’ for twelve months. In particular, then I do not want to go there.” the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 is a major event for Lutherstadt Wittenberg – and the World Reformation Seeing pink elephants Exhibition will be held there from 20 May In Wittenberg, there is virtually no graffiti to 10 September 2017. This shows what the disfiguring walls because the graffiti artists Reformation means to people worldwide, or ‘taggers’ have been consistently inte- both now and in the future. For what be- grated into town activities by the wbmo- gan 500 years ago in Wittenberg continues tion association. Big names on the scene to shape our lives today – our language, the are invited to take part in the Street Art arts and music, our concept of freedom. At Festival, where they leave their ‘tags’ on the conclusion of the Church Congresses, a large moveable walls on Arsenalplatz. One large festival church service will be held on example is the pink elephant which today 28 May 2017 in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, very attractively masks the view of a grey attended by up to 300,000 visitors. concrete wall on Wichernstrasse.

– 10 – – 11 – The Reformation did not simply create a new religious self-consciousness. Entire professions, German literature, music and science – they have all been influenced by this spiritual revolution which began here on the Elbe. From 95 theses, from one sheet of paper, arose a new reality which ultimate­ly led to the Enlightenment.

Suddenly, all roads no longer led to Rome. The Reformation as an engine of When Martin Luther posted his 95 theses economic growth Dr Johannes Block, pastor on the door of Wittenberg’s Castle Church Subsequently, Wittenberg became the cen- of the Town Church in 1517, his act transformed the mediaeval tre of this first media revolution: Printing world. Faith had now become bipolar: one workshops were set up, bookbinders, Johannes Block (52) was born in 1965 in Hamelin on the centre of power remained unchanged on typesetters, proofreaders and lead workers river Weser. Since 2011, he has the Tiber, with the other pole now located were able to make a living in completely followed in the footsteps of on the Elbe. Wittenberg, previously a rather new professions. Lucas Cranach the Elder, Martin Luther as the pastor of insignificant royal seat, became the origin not only a great painter and engraver, but Town Church of Wittenberg. He of a European revolution against religious also a far-sighted businessman, was, as a lives in the old town. He wrote his doctoral thesis on Martin patronage and spiritual corruption. printer and publisher, able to rise to the Luther’s understanding of music Indeed, Luther’s act reached far beyond this position of mayor and ‘first man’ of the in Heidelberg. This was followed religious dimension: As a reformer, he was town. by a book of poems about also present at the outset of German litera­ Martin Luther: ‘The Wittenberg ture. He helped develop the German lan- Luther’s ally – Philipp Melanchthon Nightingale. Luther in Poetry’. Johannes Block plays the piano, guage, and he possessed a special talent for Martin Luther, the eloquent champion, was enjoys jogging along the banks expressing religious insights using memor­ not the only one whose voice drew students of the Elbe, and is an honorary able imagery or ‘metaphors’. In doing this, and scholars to Wittenberg by the thou- professor of practical theology at he always listened “to what people really sands. Standing by his side was his equal, the University of Leipzig. think”, which explains the rather graphic Philipp Melanchthon, in a way the creator nature of some of his statements: “When I of a new Protestant denomination. Through fart, they shall smell it in Rome.” his writings, the ‘Teacher of Germany’ With his polemic talent, he ignited the first created the necessary unity within the media revolution in our history. His writ- Protestant camp, which was still in ings were printed in large quantities and its infancy at that time. Many spread like wildfire. With the exception of other scholars, such as Johannes the two years he spent at Wartburg castle, Bugenhagen, were among the Martin Luther was never again to leave the protagonists of the new town of Wittenberg for very long. faith in Wittenberg. A new spirit found its home Lutherstadt Wittenberg remains the cradle­ of a new Protestant faith – to this day

Left: Luther Monument on the market square Right: The Thesis Door at Castle Church

– 12 – – 13 – Town Church Both Martin Luther and Johannes Bugenhagen preached at Town Church (Stadtkirche), which is where mass was first celebrated in German. Tourist Information Showplace of the world-famous Stadthaus and Exerzierhalle Cranach Altar. (arts and conference venues) Monastery Church – Historical Tourist Information Town Information Office Arsenal www.lutherstadt- Shopping wittenberg.de Center www.wittenberg.de Museum of Katja Köhler, town guide the Municipal After completing her studies Collections in the in tourism, Katja Koehler (39) Castle Church Armoury Melanchthon House returned to her home town where It is on the door of Castle Church Melanchthon House is a place where she now lives with her husband (Schlosskirche) that Martin Luther Protestantism was able to develop and three children. She knows every corner of Wittenberg as she is said to have posted his 95 theses into a science, into a new theology. works as a town guide, among against the abuse of indulgences. Luther House other things. She made a great Luther and Melanchthon are buried The family lived in Luther House, the impression on locals and visitors beneath the pulpit. former Black Monastery, in a ‘com- alike in her role as Katharina von munity’ with many fellow believers, Bora at Luther’s Wedding. She is interested in history, geog- Coswiger Strasse to whom Luther directed his famous raphy and sports, founded the Bugenhagen ‘Table Talk’. The building now Kemberger Lebenszeiten e. V. futurea House houses the world’s largest museum of association and is the author of Science Center Reformation history. the children’s town guide ‘Out and about in Wittenberg with Young Luther’. House of Collegienstrasse History Cranach Courtyard Cranach Courtyard on Markt in Schlossstrasse Asisi Panorama Leucorea LUTHER 1517 University

The historical Four World Heritage Sites can be found in close proximity here mile

Shoulder to shoulder – this First, there are the four UNESCO sites – fascinating 360° Asisi Panorama brings the and small, well-stocked shops entice people entrance to Wittenberg has now been expression is an accurate Luther House, Town Church, time around 1517 back to life. All this and in to browse. transformed into an eye-catching sight for description of the cultural Melanchthon House and Castle Church – much more can be found along the town’s all visitors. The Historical Town Information A transformation landscape of Lutherstadt followed by the castle, the Cranach central axis, now known as the ‘Historical Office presents a monumental work of art: Courtyards, the Leucorea University, the Mile’. All along this route, dreamy nooks Derelict since the end of the Seven Years a projection of the Monastery Church. Wittenberg. A short stroll around town becomes Town Hall with its Renaissance façade, invite you to linger, cosy restaurants and War in 1760, the site of the former a cultural experience of the highest order, as numerous town houses and all the other cafés offer something to suit every taste Franciscan Monastery at the northern one sight leads on to the next. artistic and historical monuments. The

– 14 – – 15 –

Tourists simply cannot check the town off their list in a Museum of the Municipal Collections in the Armoury single day because the choice of museums is so rich. The redesigned town museum has found a new home at the Instead, visitors should take their time and enjoy the Prussian armoury on Arsenalplatz. These include unusual hospitality of Lutherstadt Wittenberg over several days. items originating from different departments of the Municipal Collections. The next two floors house exhibits from more than 700 years of this town’s history and from Julius Riemer’s famous Luther House natural history and ethnological collection. When Martin Luther first arrived in Wittenberg in September 1508, he took up residence in the Augustinian monastery. His Monastery Church – Historical Town Information Office marriage on 13 June 1525 transformed this place into a ‘refuge Without the House of Ascania, Wittenberg would not have been of the Reformation’. Today it houses the world’s largest museum a royal residence – and then the Reformation would not have It is always better to on the history of the Reformation. The special exhibition ‘Luther! happened. The spectacular discovery of the tomb of Elector Rudolf 95 People – 95 Treasures’ will be held in the extension, the II of Saxony-Wittenberg in February 2009 provided an opportuni- „ Augusteum, from 13 May to 5 November 2017. ty to present a substantial chapter of Wittenberg’s city history in a new light. The opening of the Historical Town Information Centre see with one’s own Melanchthon House and the reinterment in 2015 allow us to follow the footsteps of the The reputation of the ‘Teacher of Germany’ annually drew thou- Ascanians again. Visitors enter an illusionary church interior whose sands of scholars to the Elbe, with the Leucorea being the best at- size is similar to that of the original in around 1300 – a truly eyes than those of tended university in Europe at this time. Melanchthon House, also monumental work of art! The history and significance of the ruling a World Heritage Site like Luther House, now houses a permanent dynasty have been brought to life using medieval-style imagery. exhibition paying tribute to this great humanist and reformer. It includes interesting elements developed especially with youngsters Asisi Panorama LUTHER 1517 other people. in mind. The 360° panorama is a new highlight in Lutherstadt Wittenberg which stunningly depicts life here in around 1517. A rotunda has Cranach House been especially built in the old town to accommodate this painting Martin Luther The historical Cranach House at Markt 4 contains the permanent by Yadegar Asisi measuring about 15 x 17 metres. exhibition ‘Cranach’s World’ along with several artists’ studios and a café. The foundation operating Cranach House also runs an art House of History school in Cranach Courtyard at Schlossstrasse 1. Visitors who do not wish to travel quite so far back in time can relive everyday life from the 1920s to the 1990s in authentic living rooms, classrooms and the in-house dance bar at the House of Cranach Courtyards of the Reformation’, he created the paintings which History. It also hosts special exhibitions. Two of the most important Renaissance painters established his fame. It is only because his portraiture had their studios in Wittenberg: Lucas Cranach the was so true to life that we are able to create images of

Elder and his son Lucas Cranach the Younger. Elector many famous personalities today. Left: Statue of Cranach in the Cranach Courtyard, Schlossstrasse 1 Frederick the Wise had appointed the father to his However, in addition to a successful artist’s studio, he Below: Exhibition at Monastery Church, busts of Luther and court in Wittenberg in 1505. The artist then lived in also established a printing shop which produced works Melanchthon, and Asisi Panorama LUTHER 1517 this town for almost half a century. Here, as ‘Painter such as Martin Luther’s first translation of the bible.

– 16 – – 17 – Christian Gatniejewski, paramedic

Christian Gatniejewski (47) works as a paramedic instructor with St John’s Ambulance. As an emergency responder, he has also provided medical aid abroad, including after the earthquake in Pakistan and the typhoon in the Philippines. His wife is a doctor at Paul Gerhardt Stift Hospital in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Christian Gatniejewski is a nature lover and avid cyclist, who who likes to get away from it all on the Elbe cycle route and in the biosphere reserve. He is on duty at Luther’s Wedding in his role as head of the St John’s youth organisation, By taking just a few steps, residents and An important hub for cyclists Fläming-Skate circuit delights all roll­ providing first aid services. visitors to Lutherstadt Wittenberg are A place with so much nature close at hand erbladers. With so much enticing water A world of able to leave the Renaissance town behind will, of course, also offer virtually unlim­ around, sailors, canoeists and kayakers are and surround themselves with the beauty ited sporting and leisure opportunities. never far away. And if you prefer a less ener- of the Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve. Lutherstadt Wittenberg has become an im- getic outing, then simply hop aboard one of The extensive Elbe meadows have been portant hub for cyclists. Several cycle routes the pleasure boats. a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site intersect in the old town itself, including wonders since 1979. In this wide floodplain, the the European Cycle Route R1, a mammoth Fläming Nature Park Elbe is still able to do as she pleases. A undertaking which runs from Boulogne- Lutherstadt Wittenberg is one of the spon- landscape full of solitary gnarled oaks with sur-Mer in France to St Petersburg. The sors of Flaeming Nature Park. This isolated extensive alluvial forest has remained in Berlin-Leipzig cycle route, which takes and wild landscape north of the town was its natural state. Animals and plants that in the Fläming Nature Park and Düben once colonised by immigrant Flemings. With In Lutherstadt Wittenberg, there is no need to jump in the car to have become extinct elsewhere have found Heath, also enables cyclists to enjoy the its winding villages, dreamy brick churches, enjoy the great outdoors. The stunning Elbe meadows are right on sanctuary here. The area stretches far into hospitality of the Wittenberg people when silent monasteries and its ‘Rummeln’, the dry the doorstep. And the Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve was one of the Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz, passing through the region. Not least, the ravine valleys which are a special geological the first UNESCO reserves in Germany. where the last remaining river beavers have Elbe cycle route, which follows the me­ feature of the area, a visit here is often com- created a habitat in the water for their ander­ing river from Hamburg, also passes pared to a trip back in time to the Middle architecture. through the old town. Many times it has Ages. It is no wonder that the park authori- Visitors can learn more about this unique been described as one of the most beautiful ties are happy to provide ‘scary tours’ com- 125,000 hectare reserve at the Auenhaus long-distance cycle routes in Europe. plete with legends, bandits and guns, thereby information centre. Other sports have not been forgotten. successfully transporting visitors back in The ‘black ice’ of the 225-kilometre long time to this lost empire of fable and myth.

– 18 – – 19 – „Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would Lutherstadt Wittenberg is not just surrounded by beautiful countryside – it’s go to pieces, also one of the greenest towns in Germany I would still plant my Two animal parks Age moraine. When they reach the sum- trees and the secrets of the forest in detail at The town’s zoo is located in the casemates, mit, they can enjoy a spectacular view of the arboretum. a preserved section of the former ramparts. Luther’s town, the Fläming region and the apple tree. Monkeys, meerkats, parrots and birds Elbe meadows. The Luther Garden of prey can all be seen in the open-air Located on the edge of the historical town enclosures, and young and old alike can Experiencing nature in the Stadtwald centre is Luther Garden, a large park Martin Luther enjoy the petting zoo. The animal world is The town forest or Stadtwald stretches over maintained by the Lutheran World also the focus of the Alaris Butterfly Park. 90 hectares to the north-west of Lutherstadt Federation. To mark the 500th anniversary Beneath palms, banana trees, orchids and Wittenberg. At one time, it was the source of of the Reformation in 2017, 500 saplings coffee bushes, more than 140 species of wood for local people; now it is an environ- will be planted here and around the town. butterfly live in a tropical paradise. Some of mental refuge responsibly maintained by At the heart of the garden is the Luther them have a wingspan of almost 30cm. NABU Wittenberg [Nature and Biodiversity Rose, a planted area in the shape of Luther’s Conservation Union]. Here visitors will find seal, today a symbol of the Evangelical- Apollensberg a nature and environmental education centre Lutheran Church. From it, seven paths sym- Located on the edge of the town, 127 metres with animal enclosures, discovery trails and bolically point to the seven Protestant world above sea level, is Apollensberg. Its unique biotopes. The NABU Centre ‘Im Stadtwald’ areas which characterised the world view at limestone sediment enables animals and has long been a meeting place and recreation that time. Churches and communities may plants to live here that no longer exist area for locals and visitors. People come here sponsor trees: The donor plants a tree in the anywhere else. Visitors are able to climb to ‘chill’ in the sensory garden, to relax in Luther Garden, and at the same time, a tree the hill by following a nature trail, which the meadow orchard, to romp in the adven- in their hometown will be labelled so that it points out the special features of this Ice ture playground, or to learn about native is associated with Lutherstadt Wittenberg.

– 20 – – 21 – Renaissance

Jan P. Pajak, media engineer living Jan Pajak (36) was born in Leipzig in 1981. He later moved to the old book printing town of Wittenberg. Married in 2012, he Anyone seeking a stylish, is now the father of a daughter. The trained offset printer and ­affordable and convenient place media engineer works for Mundschenk Druck+Medien as a production manager. With his to live will find a new home in hobbies including photography and music, he has made a name Lutherstadt Wittenberg for himself as a founding member of the band Suppengrün.

Astonishingly, the irresistible charm of living in a town on the river seems unchanged: from living in the Renaissance to renaissance living – with all the comforts of our time. The restored townhouses of the old town bear witness to this.

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, Lutherstadt Wittenberg has become a mecca for architects. It has been a professional challenge for them to create modern residences in the midst of the historical buildings, while giving due consideration to their preservation. In past times, after all, people lived in much more confined spaces; there was often no indoor plumbing, and taller people today con- stantly bumped their heads on the low door jambs. Consequently, there was a need to successfully adapt the human dimensions of the Renaissance time to our present-day living requirements.

– 22 – – 23 – Left: Leucorea University A place of education Right: Hundertwasser School Lutherstadt Wittenberg is a town of learning, the origin of enlightened thought

Melina Ademaj, school student

Melina Ademaj (18) is a pupil at the Luther-Melanchthon Gymnasium in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, otherwise known as Hundertwasser School. At Luther’s Wedding, she briefly says goodbye to a worldly life and slips into a nun’s habit. Melina Ademaj is a member of the Schwager dance studio and takes singing lessons at the local music school, where she also sings in the choir.

“So it is here that wisdom has built her house, scientific research institutions enrich the academic here that she has hewn her seven pillars … world. International conferences and seminars attract From here, the call went out to guests that they researchers from all over the world. The Protestant should come. And they came from all coun- Seminary has found a new home in the formers electors’ palace. The Luther House World Heritage tries, states and nations …” So said Giordano Site has been transformed into a research centre. The Bruno at the end of the 16th century, enthusi- Augusteum, a historical university building, provides astically describing the town of Wittenberg and a fitting setting for accompanying exhibitions. And its educational establishments. Colleg Wittenberg offers a home to foreign students studying abroad for a while.

The Leucorea, Wittenberg’s university, was the focus The economy, education, people of much of this praise. Founded in 1502 by Elector Lutherstadt Wittenberg attaches great importance to Frederick the Wise, one hundred years later it had be- education – for the growing influx of students and come the most important educational establishment in researchers keeps the town young. Like an anchor, local Europe for theologians, lawyers, budding doctors and research is intended to discourage qualified people from civil servants. Students, professors and scientists flocked moving away. This is also the idea behind the future here to the banks of the Elbe in their thousands. In Science Center set up in the old town by chemical 1817, the Leucorea was merged with the University of corporation SKW Piesteritz GmbH, where interactive Halle by order of the Prussian state. exhibits show how exciting science is. Two key aims of In 1994, the old tradition was revived. The Stiftung local policy are for young adults to find employment in Leucorea foundation was established with the ob- Lutherstadt Wittenberg and to strengthen its economic jective of forming close links with the heyday of muscle. Educational establishments with a global this Wittenberg educational establishment. Today, reputation are creating a ‘win-win-win’ situation for the under the umbrella of the Leucorea, renowned economy, the town and its people.

– 24 – – 25 – Town of conferences and conventions Lutherstadt Wittenberg has always been a hub of dialogue

There are now not just one but two munici­pal arts and conference venues: the new Stadthaus and Exerzierhalle. Both are centrally located, between the old town with its World Heritage Sites and the parks, and are surrounded by many first-class hotels. Top: Opening ceremony for Exerzierhalle completed in 2014 Anyone planning a major event in exceptional Bottom: Historical brick façade of Exerzierhalle surroundings should certainly consider Wittenberg Right: Foyer and hall of Stadthaus Stadthaus, which also houses the central Town Information Office. Opened in 2014, this ultra- modern convention centre is able to accommodate 580 people. And not just for conferences or panel discussions ‒ concerts and exhibitions have also been staged here with a spectacular atmosphere on the site of the former Franciscan monastery. Just 150 metres from Stadthaus is Exerzierhalle. Events take place here which correspond with and complement the programme at Stadthaus on Arsenalplatz. Previous events include concerts, theatrical performances, markets as well as family and club celebrations. As a multifunctional hall measuring 730 square metres, Exerzierhalle fills a gap in the range of event venues available in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. www.wittenberger-stadthaus.de

– 26 – – 27 – Since the early 20th century, the research and production facilities is a edge of the Fläming region, every year, Wittenberg has been an important health centre with doctor’s surgeries, a with the number continuing to rise swiftly. location for nitrogen chemicals in physiotherapy practice and a fitness studio, Whether it is bulk goods, finished goods, Germany. Today, the Agro-Chemical a campus park, a company kindergarten, foods or liquefied gas, Piesteritz offers the Green light for and in the heart of the town the futurea ideal handling and dispatch conditions for Park is situated just outside the town, Science Center, which explains the past, all products – not to mention production-re- with SKW Stickstoffwerke Piesteritz, present and future of the chemical industry lated research, which is located right on the industry Germany’s largest manufac­ tur­ er­ of in a stimulating way. The Training and doorstep. ammonia and urea and producer of Continuing Education Centre, with lecture speciality industrial and agrochemi- theatres, laboratories and a library, promotes Perfect infrastructure cals, located at its centre. Gleaming sound opportunities for advancement for the The Agro-Chemical Park is divided into approximately 850 employees. Other compa- north and south sites by the Magdeburg– pipelines and wide green spaces both The history of the town sometimes overshadows the fact nies cooperate willingly and often with this Dresden railway line. On the Elbe side, the have an equal influence on the image industrial core of the region. They establish site stretches as far as the river with its port that important industries have located here – of the industrial culture here. their production facilities in the surrounding facilities. Running between them and the area and benefit from the excellent transport production plants is the B 187 federal high- and with great success The level of research undertaken by SKW links and funding opportunities offered by way, which conveys traffic to the motorway Stickstoffwerke Piesteritz GmbH is unique the town and the federal state of Saxony- network in just a few minutes. Whether by for a medium-sized company. Its scientific Anhalt. The state government supports rail, road or water, Lutherstadt Wittenberg facilities undertake important fundamental and promotes the Agro-Chemical Park as a always offers the best logistics infrastructure research in the fields of fertilisers and plant priority area and as a regional freight village. for industry. cultivation. Located in close proximity to 100,000 HGVs call here, on the southern

Piesteritz Agro-Chemical Park with a view towards Lutherstadt Wittenberg – more than 46 companies have already moved to the 220 hectare site.

– 28 – – 29 – Sebastian Thomas (25) Creating jobs with tomatoes Electronics engineer A few years ago, three people from the Netherlands devised a plan to set up one of Europe’s biggest tomato Sebastian Thomas is an electronics farms at Piesteritz Agro-Chemical Park. The necessary engineer working in industrial en- gineering. Nowadays he is part of synergy was in place thanks to the presence of fertilizer the technical service team at SIG manufacturer SKW next door coupled with excellent Combibloc GmbH Wittenberg. transport links to regional markets. Having invested Away from work, he has a pursuit about €20 million in greenhouses covering 15 hectares, that is useful, indeed vital for the tomatoes of outstanding quality and flavour are now town, for he is both a member and chairman of the volunteer fire harvested by 150 employees. Given such dedication, brigade in the district of Teuchel. the three founders can be forgiven for naming their Ever since he was eleven years old, produce after Martin Luther – a man who had Sebastian Thomas has been an definitely never even heard of tomatoes! active member of the local branch of the THW Federal Agency for Technical Relief, too, where he provides expert assistance to people in need.

A diversified business location office for economic development and has focused on the sweet side of life since The industrial tradition of Lutherstadt Wirtschaftsförderungsgesellschaft Anhalt- 1906. Lutherbrodt, Hansa Keks, Butterkeks Wittenberg is also continuing to have an Bitterfeld Dessau Wittenberg mbH also with the Luther rose and the classic Othello effect in other sectors – for example, in the provide help. They explain to investors the biscuit – the tasty delights from Lutherstadt construction of commercial and special- many advantages offered by the location, Wittenberg have been a treat for many cus- ist vehicles, the manufacture of rubber advise existing businesses, support the re- tomers since their childhood. The traditional compounds, high-quality corrosion and cruitment of new employees in order to solve company places particular importance on wear protection systems, in the ceramics the nationwide skilled labour shortage, and regional and sustainable production, moving and packaging industry, in construction coordinate approval procedures. with the times and constantly bringing in- chemicals production, as well as in the novative products onto the market. Wikana production of adhesive labels, the construc- Green packaging for food and drink has established itself as a powerful biscuit tion of filling machines, in air conditioning Cartons and filling machines from SIG brand in the German retail market, and also technology, in the speciality gas industry Combibloc preserve the high quality of our exports to 16 countries. and in the food and beverages industry: food and drink. And they do so without Rama, Lätta and Sanella brands of harming the environment – for the compa- Secure transport margarine have effectively become ny’s packaging largely consists of cardboard With a production plant of 110,000 square specialities of the Wittenberg region. produced from the renewable raw material metres, Feldbinder Spezialfahrzeugwerke According to economists, the industrial wood. With a workforce of around 5,000 GmbH manufactures liquid tank trailers for environment is now “highly diversified”, along with packaging plants and other all applications in the chemical, food and oil and therefore set for the future. branches worldwide, SIG Combibloc can industries. The company also produces silo respond promptly to custom requirements. trailers, rail wagons and containers in alu- Supporting growth minium and stainless steel here in Lutherstadt Wittenberg’s economy is growing because Cult biscuits Wittenberg for delivery around the world. Top: Production at SIG Combibloc companies and investors are able to find From chocolate in the early years to the wide Feldbinder is one of the largest employers and Bottom: Tank trailer from Feldbinder on optimum conditions locally. The town’s variety of biscuits available today, Wikana apprenticeship companies in the region. Wittenberg’s Elbe Bridge

– 30 – – 31 – A region like no other

Lutherstadt Wittenberg is the perfect base to explore the World Heritage region of Anhalt-Dessau-Wittenberg

Masters’ Houses and Bauhaus Dessau – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The area immediately surrounding the town offers Fläming both locals and visitors alike memorable experiences. Castles, palaces, churches, monasteries, historical town districts Nowhere else do they have the opportunity to explore and old mills dominate the cultural landscape of the Fläming nature and culture in such close proximity. countryside. Many of them were built during the spread of Christianity by settlers from Holland and Flanders, to whom the region also owes its name. Experienced stonemasons worked gran­ The World Heritage region of Anhalt-Dessau-Wittenberg has been ite stones from the surrounding fields into simple stone churches moulded over a total distance of over 100 kilometres by the ma- in the Romanesque style. It is still possible to explore these easily jestic course of the Elbe along with its tributaries the Saale, Mulde today without needing a car, for international cycle routes and The garden kingdom and Elster. For the most part, they all follow their natural course, the ‘Fläming-Skate’ network of skating paths as well as rivers and Achieving a harmonious inter- thereby making it possible to preserve the largest contiguous area of canals open the national park up to everyone. play of nature, architecture and alluvial forest in central Europe. In the south, visitors are attracted art was the aim of the landscape to the forests of Düben Heath and in the north to the gentle hills The Bauhaus in Dessau design movement at the time of the Fläming region. As you enjoy the pristine countryside here, ‘Fight against ornamentation’ and ‘Functionality’ were key watch­ of the early Enlightenment. you will also feel history come to life. words when Walter Gropius founded a new style of architecture in Under the direction of Friedrich Weimar in 1919. In 1925, the Bauhaus moved to Dessau, attracting Wilhelm von Erdmannsdorff, Düben Heath artists such as Kandinsky, Klee, Schwitters, Schlemmer, Moholy- the Dessau-Wörlitzer Garden Anyone wanting to see cranes, white-tailed sea eagles, beavers and Nagy and Feininger as if by magic. Naturally, all that was a thorn in Kingdom was created – six other rare species in an unspoilt landscape of lakes, forests and the side of the National Socialists, and the Bauhaus was closed down palaces and seven parks in a rivers should definitely visit Düben Heath Nature Park. Located in 1932. Yet, to this date, it remains one of the most influential edu­ landscape laid out according to to the south of Lutherstadt Wittenberg, this natural paradise of cational establishments in the fields of architecture, art and design, the English style. Leopold III 75 hectares is protected. Park rangers guide visitors on walks as well as the home of the avant-garde of classical modernism. The Friedrich Franz von Anhalt- through the spectacular scenery, where they will also come across Masters’ Houses designed by Walter Gropius and the Bauhaus Dessau was the patron whose the so-called ‘heath magnets’ – mazes, high-rope courses, a zoo building itself are now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. vision it was to combine beauty and Schloss Reinharz, a moated castle. In 2019, when the Bauhaus celebrates its centenary, the Bauhaus with usefulness in this way. Museum will open in Dessau – and is set to thrill visitors from all over the world. – 32 – – 33 – Berlin

Elbe

Right at the Daniel Probst, innovation consultant

Daniel Probst (40) from Leipzig helps companies to gain a fresh outlook on their business area centre of and introduces them to surprising ideas. He is also a lecturer at Magdeburg the University of Leipzig. He is 32 minutes delighted with the fast, easy ICE 60 minutes train connection between Leipzig and Lutherstadt Wittenberg. things Within 30 minutes he can “escape 90 minutes the daily grind” and recharge his 90 minutes creative juices with new impres­ sions. His three children particu- larly appreciate the town’s cultural programme: Luther’s Wedding Firmly networked in the region and the hustle and bustle of the Reformation Festival.

Lutherstadt Located in the heart of both Germany and Europe, Lutherstadt Wittenberg has outstanding transport links to the conurbations in the region. Moreover, Dessau- 30 minutes Wittenberg its river port on the Elbe, its rapid Intercity-Express rail links, the airports in Roßlau 35 minutes Leipzig/Halle and Berlin, and the nearby A9 motorway all ensure that this 47,000-strong town so close to nature is never far away from the rest of the world! A brand new central station building was opened in December 2016 – just in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. This ‘green station’ sets the standard for state-of-the-art carbon-neutral railway stations and is only the second of its kind in Germany. Lutherstadt Wittenberg with its 12 districts is increasingly becoming an important centre amid many others, such as the famous World Heritage region of Anhalt-Dessau-Wittenberg and the industrial agglomeration of the Middle German Chemical Triangle.

Lutherstadt Wittenberg offers all the advantages of a perfectly integrated region. Opting for Lutherstadt Wittenberg – be it as a place to live and work 30 minutes 60 minutes or a holiday destination – is above all a question of logic, not logistics. The unique countryside and its magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Sites make the town irresistible. Other key factors are its thriving industrial research sector, network of local businesses, and highly skilled labour pool. In short, 30 minutes 60 minutes Lutherstadt Wittenberg has everything you could want from a town – and much more besides.

Elbe A diverse economic centre Halle Apart from the chemical industry, other prominent sectors in Lutherstadt Wittenberg include the manufacture of commercial and special purpose vehicles, the production of rubber compounds, high-quality corrosion and wear protection systems, the ceramic and packaging industries, chemicals used in construction, adhesive labels, filling machines, air conditioning equipment Leipzig and industrial gases. And mention should also be made of the food industry, with the Luther Tomato and Othello cookies numbering among regional specialities.

– 35 – “So it is here that wisdom has built her house, here that she has hewn her seven pillars, here she has mixed her wine, here she has also set her table. From here, the call went out to guests that they should come. And they came from all countries, states and nations. They came, the Italians, the French, the Spaniards, the Portuguese, the British, the Scots, the Scandinavians from the North Sea, as well as Poles, Hungarians, South Slavs, and even from the Balkans and the Caucasus they came …”

Giordano Bruno in his farewell lecture at the University of Wittenberg, 1588

www.wittenberg.de