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Travel Destination -Anhalt Heartland of German History

The Sky paths Magical moments of the millennia UNESCO World Heritage as far as the eye can see

www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu 6 good reasons to visit Saxony-Anhalt!

for fans of Romanesque art and Romance for treasure hunters The Sky Disk

for lateral thinkers for strollers Luther sites in Garden Kingdom -Wörlitz

for knights of the pedal for lovers of fresh air Cycle Route Gorge in the mountains

The Luisium park in www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu the Garden Kingdom Dessau-Wörlitz Heartland of German History 1 contents

Saxony-Anhalt concise

6 Fascination : “” The Nabra Original venues of medieval life Sky Disk 31 A romantic journey with the Harz 7 Pomp and Myth narrow-gauge railway is a must for everyone. Showpieces of the Romanesque Road

10 “Mona Lisa” of Saxony-Anhalt walks “Sky Path” INFORMATIVE Saxony-Anhalt’s contribution to the history of innovation of mankind Holiday destination Saxony- Anhalt. Find out what’s on 14 Treasures of garden art offer here. On the way to paradise - Garden Dreams Saxony-Anhalt Of course, these aren’t the only interesting towns and destinations in Saxony-Anhalt! It’s worth taking a look 18 is Central German at www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu. 8 800 years of music history is worth lending an ear to We would be happy to help you with any questions or requests regarding Until the discovery of planning your trip. Just call, fax or the in 22 On the road in the land of Luther send an e-mail and we will be ready to the south of Saxony- World heritage from three eras as far as the eye can see provide any assistance you need. Anhalt, phone +49 391 562838-20 in was little The most fax +49 391 562838-11 known. beautiful sculpture 24 – Picturebook of half-timbered architecture in Germany Eight centuries of half-timbered buildings, cobblestones, narrow picturesque streets, [email protected] of the founder: www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu Uta von Naumburg Romanesque churches Bus and rail information: INSA – Information on The Middle Ages, close enough 4to touch! 25 Lutherstadt – 's place of birth and death buses and trains: Castles, palaces, monasteries, splendid On the trail of the reformer phone: +49 1801 331010*; protecting treasures and brick landline: +49 391 5363180; internet: www.insa.de, village churches are all waiting to be 27 Rendezvous with culture. Saxony-Anhalt’s beautiful towns. www.bahn.de/sachsen-anhalt discovered on the “Romanesque Road”. Charming towns to win your heart. * 3,9 ct/min from a German landline, max. 42 ct/min from a mobile, only from the German landline Georgium Palace 28 Welcome to the Advent and Christmas Fairs in Saxony-Anhalt and Park Christmas spirit in the medieval towns of Saxony-Anhalt

30 Superb winning and dining in Saxony-Anhalt

The wines and landscapes of dreams The travel destination Saxony-Anhalt impresses culture and nature lovers equally: With medi- eval architecture at the “Romanesque Road”, 31 Love of nature – breathing the fresh air in Saxony-Anhalt imposing horticulture of the idyllic “Garden Dreams”-Parks, sensational archaeological finds Wittenberg's Active experiences and relaxation in the natural landscapes of Saxony-Anhalt on the “Sky Paths” and active and nature Castle experiences on the “Blue Ribbon”. 32 Service

12 If you could collect garden miles like more reading nhalt saxony- a air miles, it would be easy to gather Germany’s Cultural treasure Chest hundreds in Saxony-Anhalt. You can find attractive excursions along the With the kind support of the “Sky Paths”, the “Romanesque Road”, into the “Garden savings banks in Saxony-Anhalt Dreams” and into the heart of Germany in the leaflets “Sky Paths”, “Romanesque Road”, “Garden Dreams

Garden Dreams – OVERALL PLAN – Historic Parks in Saxony-Anhalt“, the brochures Historic Parks in Saxony-Anhalt www.sachsen-anhalt-tourismus.de „Germany’s Cultural Treasure Chest“, and “Cultural www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu 20 Heart of Germany”. “LUTHER||Garden kingdom” region: experience UNESCO World Heritage Sites close up Welcome to the most beautiful historic parks in Saxony-Anhalt.

2 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 3 They’ve made famous throughout the world: the lifelike figures of the cathedral founders has an effect on every visitor. In the mid 13th Century, the master of a group of sculptors who had wandered east from France, known today as the “”, was commissioned to plan, arrange and realise the western of Naumburg cathedral. It was to become his magnum opus.

The Romanesque Road

Two of the sculptures of the founders in Naum- burg cathedral: Mark- graf Ekkehard (left) and his wife Uta (right).

4 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 5 romanesque

Cathedral Treasuries of Saxony-Anhalt – Showpieces of the “Romanesque Road” With 1.14 m x 10.00 m, the Abraham-Angel Tapestry is one of the oldest preserved knitted carpets in and can be admired in . The Naumburg Cathedral treasure vault is one of the oldest Romanesque vaults in Central Germany. One of the most precious pieces of the Quedlinburg treasury is the ivory comb dating back to the 7th/8th centuries. displays Beautiful vineyards an excellent facsimile of the in front of “Merseburg Incantations”. Neuenburg Castle www.domschaetze.de

Pomp and Myth

Axel Noack, former of the Protestant Church of the Church , is a confessing Fascination Middle Ages: fan of the cathedral treasuries: “Certainly, we should not only speak about the cultural-historical value, the age and the origin of cathedral treasuries. We also want to give the viewer an idea of the role those treasuries play in the spiritual life of the parish.” “Romanesque Road” On display again: Maria Magdalena on one of two became one the most important Halberstadt Cathedral Treasury altar wings painted by Lucas palatinates. Sophienquell source originates at the Amtsgarten of Wanzleben Castle. It is said that the Headless Horseman is riding around The Halberstadt Cathedral Cranach the Elder, can be seen One artefact highlight is the well house every night. Yet, neither field marshal Tserclaes, the count of Tilly nor Frederick the Great, neither Prussian St Stephen and St Sixtus is one in the Cathedral treasure vault. the world famous Gospel Book major Schill nor the delicate Prussian Queen Luise were deterred by this tale from staying overnight at one of Europe’s largest of the most beautiful cathedrals The exhibited works of art in of Samuhel. flatland castles. Today, Wanzleben Castle is a hotel–cum-restaurant and part of the “Romanesque Road”. in Germany. The Cathedral trea- one of the largest Romanesque www.domschatzquedlinburg.de sury, one of the largest of Euro- vaults of Central Germany at Stories along the “Romanesque Road”: worldwide: Neuenburg Castle near Freyburg pe, is a collection of medieval art Naumburg Cathedral St Peter Incantations and Just to recap: Saxony-Anhalt is the heartland of () was the residence of Holy Elizabeth that has grown over centuries. and St Paul grant a wonderful mantle of Otto There are numerous German history. Here, along the “Romanesque for one year. Holy Norbert was commuting Aren’t these two sentences insight into an art that fostered No doubt, the mantle could stories about the history Road”, you will experience original locations of between his monastery, the Premonstratensian teasing you to visit Halberstadt? faith and man. not have been worn by the of the 1,000 km long “Romanesque Road” in medieval life in the middle of Germany. Monastery of Our Lady and the Cathedral of The large number of resplendent www.naumburger-dom.de because it was not yet Saxony-Anhalt, one of With more than 1.46 million visitors per St Maurice and St Catherine in , his medieval robes that were meant made in Otto the Great’s time. the most favoured tourist annum, Saxony-Anhalt‘s “Romanesque Road” Archiepiscopal See. Holy Brun, who is especially for services is unique. You can Return from Texas However, thanks to this legend routes. It consists of 80 locations: cathedrals, has become one of the most famous and most important in , descended from the dynasty assume that only the Vatican to Quedlinburg that this should have been the churches, palatinates, popular tourist routes in Germany. of . Brun of Querfurt was a missionary can boast more! You will marvel Whitewright, Texas. Here the “mantle of Otto the Great”, monasteries, convents You will get to cities like the UNESCO archbishop in Eastern Europe. He died as a at the skills of Byzantine and “Quedlinburg Treasure” was this precious artefact could and castles. Today, the Romanesque Road is part World Heritage site of Quedlinburg with Col- missionary and martyr among pagan Prussians. Islamic artisans, which you can rediscovered. The most valuable have been prevented from of the European Cultural legiate Church St Servatius on Castle Hill and As you can see: there is countless history in admire at the extraordinary pieces of the Quedlinburg destruction. Hence, it enables Route “TRANSROMANICA”. Quedlinburg treasury. The Naumburg treasury stories on the “Romanesque Road”. beautiful and precious reliquaries treasury were stolen by a US you today to learn more about You will find a multitude of stunning pieces on the with its valuable works by the most important Just think about Castle at Bad and altar furnitures. Army lieutenant in 1945. This 10th – 12th century fashion. Northern and Southern Gothic sculptor – the Naumburg Master – as Kösen, where Franz Kugler composed his Come and admire the Cathe- is another fascinating treasure- The two spells of the Merse­- Routes. The four cathedral well as the impressive Cathedral treasury vault; famous song “An der hellem Strande” dral treasury in the permanent story on the “Romanesque burg Incantations in Old High treasuries of Halberstadt, Quedlinburg, Merseburg the masterly architectural ensemble of Merse- when he was a student. The view above the exhibition. Road”. Quedlinburg’s Collegiate are considered and Naumburg should burg Cathedral and Castle with its Cathedral Saale valley and its neighbouring Castle www.dom-und-domschatz.de Church of St Servatius on Castle to be the only preserved definitely not be missed. treasury that became famous for the “Merse­ is like a perfect dream. Hill, which is listed together testimonies of German pagan www.strasse-der-romanik.net burg Incantations”; as well as Halberstadt One very special site on this journey is Naumburg: with Quedlinburg’s half-timbered religiosity. These treasuries Cathedral St Stephen and St Sixtus with one Drübeck Convent near . Here Competition for Uta as a UNESCO World can be marvelled at the Chapter of the most interesting Cathedral treasuries of you will encounter a unique combination of Hidden in the GDR from Schalck- Heritage site, takes you back to House which is part of the Ivory comb, so-called Germany. Ro­manesque buildings and Baroque garden Golodkowski (‘s the beginnings of the German unique architectonical ensemble Comb of Henry (7th/­ On that Road you will find the domain and design in the five gardens of the canonesses commissioner for hard currency Empire. Under Henry I, father on Castle Hill. 8th century A.D.), places of life of three saints who are known and the garden of the abbess. acquisition), the fascinating of Otto the Great, Quedlinburg www.merseburger-dom.de Quedlinburg

6 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 7 The Sky Paths

Copenhagen, , … Saxony-Anhalt’s contribution to the history of innovation of mankind, the “Nebra Sky Disc”, aroused curiosity and amazement all over Europe. The “Mona Lisa” of archaeology has found its place at the State Museum of Prehistory (Saale) in a permanent exhibition especially conceived for this artefact. No doubt: The original “Nebra Sky Disc”, one of four stations of the tourist route “Sky Paths”, will remain a crowd puller.

Discovery of the millennium: “The Nebra Sky Disc”

8 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 9 archaeological

The “Nebra Ark” seems 3 000 years older to hover across the Unstrut than valley like a golden boat.

You will be impressed, no matter from which direction you approach the structure in the open country in front of ’s small single- family houses. Even today, its size compels respect. 1,675 oak logs were rammed into the ground for the reconstruction of the two palisade rings. With its 75 metre-diametre, measured at the outer ditch, it is considered to be the oldest recovered solar observatory in Europe. The ditch, the mound and the two palisade rings have three sets of apertures facing North, Southeast and Southwest. At the winter , observers at the centre can see the sunset through the southwest­ gate and – in the next morning – the sunrise through the southeast gate.

Cult site and judgment place The 7000 year-old circular structure, i.e. 3000 years older than Stonehenge, served not only as a solar Cult site and observation observatory but also as a cult site, judgment place site: The reconstructed and market. The finds let scientists assume that this solar observatory at Goseck place bore witness to different rituals. In 1991, an aerial image archaeologist spotted conspicuous discolouration in a field. Excavation works began in 2002. The reconstructed site was opened to the public on 21 December 2005, the winter solstice. Since then it has been fascinating The inventive design of the Multimedia “Nebra Ark” thousands of visitors. multimedia visitor centre The visitor centre is not a conventional museum. It “Mona Lisa” of Saxony- bears witness to successful shows a presentation with a large variety of multi- modern architecture while media elements and addresses visitors on different the centre tells the story of levels. Thus, virtual figures are wandering like the “Nebra Sky Disc”. Nebra Ark – ghosts through the showcases and provide scientific Anhalt walks “Sky Paths” information to the visitor with charm and esprit. Experience the The whodunnit around the discovery of the Sky “The Nebra Sky Disc resembles for us the Mona Lisa in the Louvre - and that is the reason why we will present it very much Disc is presented in a Punch and Judy show. Large Families are welcome: like ‘La Gioconda’, promises Dr Bernd Zich , archaeologist and division manager at the State Museum of Prehistory that Sky Disc! The Information Centre sculptures reveal deeper dimensions of the find. takes you to the original Sky Disc. Since the amazing find in 1999, a lot has happened, for instance the opening of the tourist at Goseck Castle The planetarium show is taking the viewer to route in the South of Saxony-Anhalt called “Sky Paths”, which is impressively presenting the places of discovery of prehistoric The “Nebra Ark” is a phenomenal building. It is Near the circular ditch system the universe of the Bronze Age. It is getting clear astronomical knowledge. located beneath Mittelberg hill, where the “Nebra of the Solar Observatory, at that whoever was able to read the meaning of the Sky Disc” was once excavated by treasure looters. Goseck Castle that is part “Nebra Sky Disc” was ruler of time. With its help, The Sky Disc is back again! What kind of changes back then the people had The Bronze disc with platings depicts no less of the “Romanesque Road”, calendar dates could be fixed and solar and lunar The State Museum of Prehistory in Halle (Saale) lived through is presented at the exhibition that than the worldwide oldest concrete representation the Information Centre invites calendar could be merged already 3600 years ago. Event Highlight: Winter displays the original “Nebra Sky Disc”. was especially conceived for the Sky Disc. You of the cosmos. visitors to learn more about Amazing! The producers of this 22-minute digital and Summer What must have happened for an entire­ era can embark on this route anywhere – for example In fact, the exhibition at “Nebra Ark” is not a the observatory. Visitors show manage to set visitors into times that have At Goseck Solar to end? Why did people in the early Bronze in Langeneichstädt. classical exhibition but rather a game around the get answers to questions long since passed. Observatory, the winter Age loose their previous beliefs? What were the Sky Disc, the key find for archaeology, astronomy e.g. about the history of the The 30-metre high observation tower at the solstice (21 December) as reasons to bury the “Nebra Sky Disc” downright The dolmen goddess of Langeneichstädt and religious history. observatory or about what authentic place of the Sky Disc’s discovery is visible well as the summer solstice at the Mittelberg hill near Wangen at the end of A small, largely unknown town achieved archae- life was like been during the from the “Nebra Ark”. The tower has a ten-degree (21 June) could be observed. this era? ological fame in 1987. The reason: a remarkable Symbols on the Sky Disc New Stone Age. Subjects tilt, which means that it is not only a distinctive Today, Stone-Age Festivals The exhibition at the State Museum of Middle Neolithic tomb from the time around respectively , lunar crescent and Pleia­ covered include astronomical observation tower but also the needle of a giant on these two days that are Prehistory in Halle, which leads to the Sky Disc, 3,600 to 2,700 B.C. This tomb housed a menhir – des are depicted and compose a stylised depiction of backgrounds and the sun dial. Through the vertical cut that divides the arranged in and at the solar fascinates visitors with its dramatic set-up. “We this word comes from the Breton meaning “long the night sky. Two horizon arcs that are marking the excavation works. building you will have a panoramic view of mount observatory let you feel do not know yet what happened back then. Why stone” – with a carved dolmen goddess along angle between the winter and summer solstices as Information is provided . The site also preserves a special aura by its and experience the special after 800 years – the Bronze Age lasted approxi- with a number of pieces of jewellery. Dolmen well as a solar barge were added later. The arc ends in a family-friendly and design which you do not want to miss. The magic of atmosphere of this location, mately from 2,300 to 1,600 B.C. – this era ended”, also originates from the Breton and means are oriented towards winter and summer solstice. experience-orientated this site, where the “Nebra Sky Disc” was buried, has a place laden with history. Dr Bernd Zich describes the dilemma, which, in “stone table”, it is a stone chamber or stone box In combination with the full moon and the lunar manner. been revived. www. sonnenobservatorium- his eyes, is no dilemma: “Unsolved questions will as those that were used as tombs in the Middle crescent, the Pleiades signalise important data for the www. sonnenobservatorium- www.himmelsscheibe-erleben.de goseck.info arouse curiosity for the next findings.” Neolithic period. beginning and end of sowing and harvest. goseck.info www.himmelswege.de

10 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 11 Green miles If you could collect garden miles like air miles, it would be easy to gather hundreds in Saxony-Anhalt. It’s as if the 43 stunningly beautiful parks, from four centuries, for strollers were just made for strollers with a sense for garden art and culture. These “Garden Dreams – Historic Parks in Saxony-Anhalt” are spread out across the whole state and often wind romantically around important buildings, locations and towns. A green rendezvous with culture – from the small kitchen garden in the Kloster Drübeck monastery to the world’s largest rose collection in and contemporary garden miles such as Magdeburg’s Palace Georgium and green banks of the Elbe. the Georgengarten in the Garden Kingdom Dessau-Wörlitz

12 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 13 natürlichnatural

and Palatial Park, Köthen Castle and Castle Park, Castle and Castle Gardens, Briest Manor House and Manorial Park and Degeners- hausen Landscape Park.

With traces of Baroque splendour They really are something special. Even today, parks which contain traces of Baroque splendour are easy to recognise by the “ooh”s and “aah”s of the visitors. The face of these gardens beams at us, draws us under its spell and lets us experience these places as they make a deep impression on us. Without any input from us, Baroque parks give our imagination wings – we find ourselves time- travelling in the 17th and 18th Centuries … the princely couple has invited us to enjoy some summertime pleasures in the beautifully planned, almost perfectly geometric gardens. The guests stroll along the cream-coloured paths, dressed in silk and brocade. Axes of water feed climbing fountains, whose cooling drops sprinkle the surrounding boxwood sculptures. The gardeners’ clever and patient hands have coaxed them into the shapes of balls, cones and curiosities. The artistic signature of the Baroque also always includes its own world of stone sculptures between the trees and flowers. Hundisburg Palace and Baroque Garden It’s no surprise that even the gods and nymphs want to make a good impression. Even today, with their Baroque design, the Garden Dreams parks are evidence of a creativity and quality which we can enjoy even almost 300 years later.

Landscapes of the world The Garden Kingdom As is often the case, the truth is very simple: if Dessau-Wörlitz and the you want to see the origin of all English-style With botanic abundance Europa-Rosarium in landscaped parks on the European continent, What would a park be without trees, flowers Sangerhausen are just two Treasures of garden art you have to go to Wörlitz. It was here that Leo- and botanical rarities? Nothing! It wouldn’t highlights of the Garden Dreams network. pold III Frederick Franz, Duke of Anhalt-Dessau, even exist. Parks and gardens enchant us. They take us on a journey to paradise. This tour can be long or short – but is always enjoyable. made his dream a reality. Still impressed by The all-important first look at a historical Take time out and lose yourself in the beauty of the Garden Dreams. www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu what he had seen on a tour of England, in the park for us visitors, which is so decisive for our second half of the 18th Century he commissioned love and affection for a place, looks for a strong 43 helpings of heaven admirers from near and far, who can’t get a project to redesign the landscape of Wörlitz copper beech on a lush green meadow. Or the 43 historic parks and gardens are now part of enough of the connection between beauty between the Elbe and the and allow the first flush of colour of the narcissi and tulips the Garden Dreams initiative, run by the state and utility found in Wörlitz. Or, as Johann residents to use it better. The Garden Kingdom in spring. And the tender pink, deep red and of Saxony-Anhalt. With plenty of love and Wolfgang von Goethe so accurately wrote to Dessau-Wörlitz which resulted form a unique snowy white fragrant rose petals in summer. great care, specialists chose them from over Charlotte von Stein: “As we wandered among cultural landscape, which is today a World Even the finest examples of trees and hedges in 1,000 listed parks and green spaces between the lakes, canals and forests yesterday evening, Heritage Site. seemingly natural, skilfully worked landscape the Elbe, Harz and Saale. Over the past few I was deeply moved by the way in which For 250 years, Wörlitz has been inviting parks, which have been looked upon with awe years, most of them have been renovated and the gods had allowed the Prince to create all visitors to the parks, which have always been open throughout their centuries of life. restored according to historical documents. around him a dream.” He experienced this to the public, to allow them to sharpen their It is important to take time and look carefully Around 2 million visitors a year take the garden dream on May 14th 1778. senses and take an enlightened look at the finer in order to see the face of the park behind the opportunity to treat their senses – enjoying www.gartenreich.com things in life. This is the source of all landscape trees, flowers and leaves. The way it shines salvation and a feast for the eyes. art in Germany, and of course the template for softly in the early spring sunshine, its exuberant www.gartentraeume-sachsen-anhalt.de The new Garden Dreams parks many parks in Saxony-Anhalt today. satisfaction on lush summer days and the hint In Summer 2010, eight more historic parks Following the era of Baroque gardens, a of quiet melancholy in the autumn mist. Many The crowning glory were added to the state initiative for the wave of park redesigns began, peaking at the of these searching looks will find what they are The high point to start or end a Garden Dreams preservation of historic garden monuments start of the 19th Century. This led to the creation looking for in the Garden Dreams parks – a real journey through Saxony-Anhalt is the 7 gardens and have been included in the attractive tourist of “walk-in landscape paintings”, which had joy for visitors. And as it is so often the case in in the Garden Kingdom Dessau-Wörlitz. Named marketing: Gardens and Parks in , particular visual relationships between buildings, life, some parks need a second look so that the a cultural world heritage site by UNESCO in Naumberg Cathedral and Cathedral Garden, sculptures and garden elements. The park first flush of love turns into deep affection. 2000, this unique cultural landscape attracts Wendgräben Castle and Park, Ostrau Palace gained a philosophical dimension. www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu

14 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 15 Resonant names. Exquisite music. Historic locations. Saxony- Anhalt's musical landscape includes Magdeburg as the native city of as well as Köthen/Anhalt, where once became court director of music (). George Frederic Handel was born in Halle (Saale) and England's national . The son of an innkeeper from Weissenfels – Heinrich Schütz – became the "Father of German music" in the 17th century. from Dessau took the Broadway by storm in the last century. It is obvious: Saxony- Anhalt's landscape is remarkably rich in music.

Over 800 years of musical history

Always a special experience – the Handel Festival in Halle (Saale).

16 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 17 musical

The sound envelops man and tells him The Silbermann Organ of life and eternity. Only an organ can do so. in Naumburg. When Matthias Eisenberg is playing the organ of the St Lawrence Church it seems as if he wants to surprise himself every time anew by the only still sounding instrument by Baroque organ master-builder Andreas Kahrling, a native of Mecklenburg, Germany. The organ was sensibly overhauled by Alexander Schuke Orgel- bau GmbH and features a technically remarkable and easy playability and a clear Baroque sound. On 11 September 1705, Andreas Kahrling had handed over the organ with 1,094 sounding pipes to the town of Loburg together with a certificate of guarantee. In return Music Tips he received 1800 Reichs­ thalers. The sensitive Annual: Handel Festival in Halle (Saale) restoration of the www.haendelfestspiele.halle.de likewise Renaissance Every two years: Telemann Festival in Magdeburg Church with Baroque www.telemann.org features recently Every two years: Bach Festival in Köthen/Anhalt “Bach is the beginning completed and offers www.bach-in-koethen.de and the end of all music.“ a splendid space to Every two years: International Fasch Festival in Max Reger the organ to make its Baroque music in Saxony- www.fasch.net sound perfect. Infor- Anhalt can be listened to Annually in February/: Kurt Weill Festival everywhere – and mostly mation about concert in Dessau-Rosslau at an international level. dates can be found on the website of “Mittel- www.kurt-weill-fest.de deutsche Barockmusik”. Annually in September: Merseburg Organ Days By the way, under www.merseburger-orgeltage.de the direction of son Annual: International Organ Summer Matthias Schuke, at the Hildebrandt Organ in Naumburg the Schuke company www.naumburg-stadt.de Baroque music also built the new Annually in September/October: symphonic organ at Central German Heinrich Schütz Days in Weissenfels . www.schuetztage.de is Central German 19.936.025.159 seconds ... The restored Kahrling Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and are the shared home of Central German Baroque music. AS SLOW AS POSSIBLE Organ in Loburg (above) Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Thuringia (), spent the greatest time of his life in Saxony- The longest organ piece in the world is sounding Anhalt (Köthen/Anhalt) and the most important time for his oeuvre in Saxony (). The Father in Halberstadt. Since the year 2000, the organ piece of German music, Heinrich Schütz of Weissenfels, once lived in cities that are today located in these “organ2 / ASLSP” by John Cage is being performed three federal states. Certainly Bach composed his “ ” in Köthen/Anhalt, Tele- in the Halberstadt Monastery of St Burchardi and mann listened closely to Krakow street musicians and Fasch composed a serenade in Zerbst/Anhalt will last 639 years. in 1745 on the occasion of the marriage of princess Sophie Auguste Friederike of Anhalt-Zerbst with In 1361, the worldwide first Giant Organ was Grand Duke Peter of . In 1762, she ascended the Russian throne as Catherine II. built there. Until now, the sounding Monastery attracts more than 10,000 visitors annually. More They are the masters of Central German Baroque with national importance in the Blue Book of the than half of them come from abroad. music: Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frederic German government. Heinrich Schütz is deemed www.john-cage.halberstadt.de Handel, Heinrich Schütz, Georg Philipp Telemann to be the “Father of German music”. This House in and Johann Friedrich Fasch. The reverence of Weissenfels is the only original preserved residential these masters will lead you to the cities of Köthen/ home of the composer. Neu-Augustusburg Castle Anhalt, Halle (Saale), Weissenfels, Magdeburg and with its Castle Chapel worth seeing is one of the Zerbst/Anhalt. Illustrious names will attract you tourists’ attractions in Weissenfels. Central Germany belongs to Europe’s excellent organ landscapes. The Hildebrandt there to attend festivals. But the cities themselves Köthen Castle is a Bach Memorial Site. Well organ at Naumburg St Wenzel is the masterpiece of Zacharias Hildebrandt, it earned him and no less their surroundings are awaiting you worth seeing are the magnificent mirror hall and reconciliation with his master and teacher Gottfried Silbermann, who was commissioned with all attractions you can expect during a trip, the St Agnus Church. The annual International to accept this organ and had no complaints. After all, Hildebrandt Organ fans will feel happy about finding three more organs in the surroundings of Sangerhausen: In Sanger­ such as great concerts, magnificent palaces and Bach Festival takes place at these authentic historic hausen, Pölsfeld and Sotterhausen. The four manual­ organ at (right) castles, historic monasteries,­ convents or churches sites. The International Fasch Festival is hosted is among the masterpieces of Friedrich Ladegast. A smaller Ladegast organ can be found and romantic landscapes. The Heinrich Schütz in Zerbst. in Biederitz near Magdeburg. House was listed as a “Cultural Memorial Site” www.mitteldeutsche-barockmusik.de

18 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 19 Nowhere else in Germany has so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites so close together. In Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Luther preached a belief in God without fear and the selling of indulgences, while Eisleben is where Luther was born and died. In Dessau-Roßlau, the Bauhaus artists developed a design which remains influential to this day. Not far away, an enlightened, well-travelled prince was creating a world-famous park landscape. With its old town, castle hill with Collegiate Church of St. Servatius, Münzenberg and Wipertikirche, Quedlinburg is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

World Heritage as far as the eye can see

Castle church in Lutherstadt Wittenberg

20 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 21 cultural

Martin Luther (1483-1546) and the Martin Luther was born in Lutherstadt Eisleben in what is now Saxony-Anhalt in 1483 and was a pioneer for the Reformation. The catalyst for the Reformation was Luther nailing his 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. Luther, professor of theology and Augustine monk, focused on Jesus Christ as the "physical incarnation of the word of God". His famous sermons and manuscripts and above all the first version of the Bible that could be read and understood by everyone (everyone who could read, at least), the "Luther Bible", altered society for good during the transition from the Middle Ages to the Modern Age. Principalities of the time used Luther's reformatory theses to shake up the almost untouchable power of the Pope and the Emperor. Even though Luther didn't actually mean it to at all, his way of thinking eventually led to a schism (formation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church and other Protestant denominations). Luther died in 1546 in Eisleben. Luther 2017 The Luther decade to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation has been running since 2008 and will do so until 2017, with varying annual focuses in the form on Luther memorial in Wittenberg; Bauhaus in Dessau-Roßlau, Garden Kingdom Dessau Wörlitz different events, regional exhibitions, academic congresses or cultural events. www.visit-luther.de

Luther-Bauhaus-Garden Kingdom – On the road UNESCO World Heritage Sites Nowhere else in Germany are so many UNESCO-protected sites situated in such close proximity: the , Melanchthonhaus, the City Church and Castle Church in in the Luther Country Wittenberg all give an insight into the real world of the Reformation. The Bauhaus buildings in Dessau were and World heritage from three eras as far as the eye can see still are the setting for the most important art, design and architecture school of the 20th century (35 km away). The Garden Kingdom Dessau-Wörlitz, conceived by Leopold III Frederick Franz, Duke of Anhalt-Dessau, is considered as a small epitome of the Enlightenment and perfectly The world-famous home of Martin Luther is situated in the picturesque east of Germany. Almost Along with the other Dessau houses where the combines practicality with beauty (21 km away). 500 years after he nailed his theses to the wall in 1517, much has changed in the small Renaissance greatest artists and architects of the time lived www.luther-bauhaus-gartenreich.de city of Wittenberg, which is found in the German federal state of Saxony-Anhalt. But then again, and worked, the Bauhaus situated in Dessau, in some ways, not a lot has changed either. Today you can still find the most famous locations of 35 kilometers away from Wittenberg, is today Reformation Day and Luther's Wedding the Reformation side by side in the streets of the historic old town. The people of Germany have considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reformation Day is celebrated in Germany every year on th already started to celebrate the 500 anniversary of the publishing of the Ninety-Five Theses, with Many other Bauhaus houses can be seen around 31st October by the Evangelical Church - in memory of a "Luther decade" lasting until the year 2017. Those who visit Lutherstadt Wittenberg will find the city including the famous Kornhaus [granary] the start of the Reformation with the nailing of Martin another three UNESCO-protected sites without having to travel further than 35km-away (about countryside restaurant on the banks of the Elbe Luther's 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church in 22 miles) – something which is rare in Europe and unique in Germany. or the Törten district consisting of more than Wittenberg. One of the most impressive Reformation 300 houses. celebrations in Saxony-Anhalt takes place in Lutherstadt In Wittenberg, Luther preached for a belief in God of the Schwarzes Kloster [black monastery]. With tolerant policies and way of thinking, Wittenberg itself. There are a church services (also in without fear and the selling of indulgences and in The most famous Wittenberg scenic city tour the grandson of "the Old Dessauer" Leopold I, English), church music, ecclesiastic and academic events, Dessau, Bauhaus artists such as , expert will accompany you through the Renais- created a green model state at the time of The theater and a rich Middle-Age program. In June of each and Lyonel Feininger composed designs sance city on the banks of the River Elbe for Enlightenment in Germany, where everything year, Wittenberg invites you to celebrate Luther's Wedding. which are still influential today. Not all too far two hours or more along with the many extras beautiful was also useful. A seemingly-infinite The history-rich spectacle with all kinds of workshops and away, Leopold III Frederick Franz, Duke of Anhalt- she employs dressed in historical costumes. garden which brought together life, landscape, costumes is considered as one of the greatest city festivals 2 Dessau created a world-famous 142 km garden. Number of hills? None. Distance? 930 meters up architecture and fine arts. In 2000 it became a in Germany and takes place over three days, attracting All of this is linked by a UNESCO-protected the street. The first stop of more than 20 is the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over a period around 10,000 visitors. The highlight is a historical pageant biosphere reserve of ancient riparian forest along impressive house which belonged to Luther - of 40 years, five more parks were constructed which hosts a reconstruction of the wedding between the River Elbe, the second-longest river in Germany, today the largest Reformation history museum in in the extensive countryside to accompany the Luther and Katharina von Bora, a nun who had fled from where White-tailed Eagles, European Otters and the world. This is where Luther's most famous highlight, the Garden Kingdom Dessau-Wörlitz. a convent. Around 2,000 wedding guests cheer for the thousands of busy beavers all live. works were created, this is where his students Prince Franz skillfully linked them all together pair of Martin and Katharina as they wander through 2 Luther's wife Katharina von Bora, alias Nicole from all over the world listened to his legendary Door in Wittenberg on which over an area of 142km by building fruit-tree-lined Wittenberg's old town. Dalichow, hurries over the cobblestone courtyard speeches. Luther nailed his theses boulevards, levees and creating lines of sight. www.wittenberg.de

22 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 23 cultural Lutherstadt Eisleben – Martin Luther’s place of birth and death

Eisleben 1483: A new mortal was born on 10 November and baptised at the Church of St Peter and St Paul on 11 November. As this was St Martin’s Day, he was – appropriately – named Martin: The child of the married couple Margarethe and Hans Luder.

In Eisleben you are facing the cradle of the that Luther’s father gained wealth by being an Reformer. Well, not exactly, since a fire destroyed entrepreneur in mining and smelting the history the birth house of Martin Luther in 1689. But of mining of the district Mansfelder Land also The Luther Path in 1693, the city of Eisleben already rebuilt the plays an important role. He was not a poor face “Eisleben” birth house of its most famous citizen. worker as his son Luther always used to say. The citizens of Eisleben did In 2007 the birth house ensemble was handed The saintliness and important spirituality of something very special to over to the public. The birth house has been the outgoing late Middle Ages and Renaissance connect the cities’ Luther elaborately restored. The newly built exhibition are further topics of the exhibition. They help sites: The Luther Path Eis­ wing, which was highly praised internationally understand the reason for Luther’s resistance leben themed “Go together because of its modernity and its architecture, and his entire subsequent works. with Luther – from Eisleben connects both World Heritage sites: the Birth About 250 exhibits dating from the 12th to into the world”, is to connect House as well as the Lutherarmenschule, a state- 19th century are on display, including a collection the Luther sites, which funded school for the poor. The newly designed of portrait artworks of Luther and original are of course part of the and generous reconstructed exhibition “That‘s letters of the two reformers Martin Luther and UNESCO World Heritage, Where I‘m From – Martin Luther and Eisleben” Philipp Melanchthon. These clearly prove that not only visually and tell made this connection possible. This exhibition Luther’s Birth House in Eisleben might be the compelling stories about embeds the reformer’s family history in its first civil museum in the German-speaking Luther’s life and work. regional, late medieval context. Due to the fact world. www.eisleben.eu www.visit-luther.de

Collegiate Church of St Servatius Exhibition in in Quedlinburg Luther’s birthplace in Lutherstadt Eisleben

Quedlinburg – Picturebook of half-timbered architecture in Germany

Quedlinburg with Münzenberg and St. Servatius Collegiate Church – UNESCO World Heritage Site

While the history of kings and later the history The birth house of poet Friedrich Klopstock of the monastery was mostly playing on Castle and the Feininger Gallery with their fascinat- Hill, life on Münzberg Hill was less elitist. ing exhibitions are also part of the Quedlinburg Tinkerers and jugglers, travelling people in heritage which is steeped in history. general, who were not really welcomed by the After some of the cathedral treasury’s bright- The poet of the “Messiah” was born at respectable citizens, were living there. Today, est pieces had to undergo an involuntary stay in Quedlinburg’s Klopstock with its more than 60 half-timbered houses it is Texas for decades it is reunited and can be visited House in 1724. a respectable Mediterranean-like urban quarter. at the Collegiate Church. Each visitor is likely to be The “Ständerbau” (post and beam construc- surprised and fascinated by Quedlinburg. tion), the city’s oldest half-timbered house, is today www.quedlinburg.de serving as a museum of half-timbering. Since the 14th century it has been standing defiant as a sym- bol of the existence for centuries in the old town.

24 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 2325 Magdeburg Cathedral

Rendezvous with culture. City Trips Saxony-Anhalt’s Saxony-Anhalt – the Heartland of German History offers abundant choices for city trips. Major cities, beautiful towns. such as Magdeburg, Halle (Saale) Halle (Saale) and Dessau-Rosslau allure with a They exist! Magical moments. They go straight to our hearts, caress our souls and varied offer of shopping and cultural don’t leave our minds. Two eyes smiling at us. A gesture that touches us. A town experiences. Small towns, such as in which we feel welcome. Which wins us over completely and won’t let go. We’ve already arranged a rendezvous with culture in Saxony-Anhalt’s beautiful towns Wernigerode, Quedlinburg and for you. You set the date! With Uta of Naumburg, who will smile only at you. With Stolberg in the Harz region, Tanger- Otto the Great and his Editha in Magdeburg Cathedral, who will grant you an münde and Hansestadt in audience. With the treasures of Halberstadt Cathedral, waiting to fascinate and the region as well as Luther- surprise you. With Kandinsky and Klee, whose house in Dessau will touch you with stadt Wittenberg and Naumburg simple beauty. With Handel from Halle (Saale), who became a worldwide in invite you to go for a stroll through . www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu their historic narrow alleys. In many places you can marvel at world-class Dessau-Roßlau Hanseatic City of sights. A bulging event calendar The world-famous Bauhaus building, the 800-year-old county seat in the North-West Wernigerode provides variety for city trips in houses and the Garden Kingdom Dessau- of the Altmark, with listed town centre and Saxony-Anhalt. Wörlitz are UNESCO World Heritage medieval hanseatic architecture. Speciality: www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu Sites. The town is located in the UNESCO Baumkuchen cake. Proteced Area “Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve”. Lutherstadt Eisleben The greatest son of this over 1000-year-old Freyburg (Unstrut) town is Martin Luther, who was born here Freyburg lies in the most picturesque in 1483 and died here in 1546. The town part of the Unstruttal valley, nestled maintains his memory proudly and was among in vineyards, fields and forests. awarded the name Lutherstadt in 1946. Freyburg (Unstrut) is known for the “father of gymnastics” Friedrich Lud- Lutherstadt Wittenberg wig Jahn, the Rotkäppchen producer of Wittenberg became known around the sparkling wine, Neuenburg Castle and world when Martin Luther nailed his Quedlinburg the local wines. theses to the door of the Castle Church King Henry I. and his descendents made in 1517. Today, all the Luther sites in the Quedlinburg the centre of imperial politics Halberstadt town are on the list of UNESCO World in the Ottonic era. You can still get a feel Striking church buildings define the Heritage Sites. for this today in the medieval town, which cityscape of this former Episcopal is uniquely preserved and has been a city, founded in 804 by . Magdeburg UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. With its cathedral treasury, 5 museums, The main attractions of “Magdeburg – half-timbered houses and Romanesque City of Otto” are the 800-year-old cathedral, Tangermünde architecture, Halberstadt offers a with the burial site of Emperor Otto the The historic old town with its half- unique journey of discovery. Great, and the Hundertwasser architectural timbered houses, historic redbrick Gothic project THE GREEN CITADEL OF buildings, a well-fortified town wall with Halle (Saale) MAGDEBURG. towers and gates and the castle ensemble Halle, the town of Handel, will captivate bring history to life. you with 1200 years of history: castles, Merseburg museums, theatre, opera and orchestral Merseburg, town of spells, is one of the Wernigerode concerts, the Bergzoo and numerous oldest cities in Germany. The cathedral Wernigerode, the colourful town on the parks along the Saale river invite you to quarter, with its architecturally extra­ Northern edge of the Harz. Be fascinated linger and enjoy. ordinary ensemble of cathedral and by the majestic half-timbered houses, castle, is unique in Central Germany. picturesque winding streets, interesting Hanseatic City of courtyards and enchanting gardens. View of Halberstadt The old town island at the mouth of Naumburg Cathedral the and Elbe between and Nestled among gentle river valleys and , with a cathedral, rows of sunny terraced vineyards lies the almost The over 1000-year-old town on the houses on the cathedral mount, water 1000-year-old cathedral town of Naum- Weisse has plenty to interest tourism centre, camping island and burg. Its trademark is the St. Peter und visitors – traces of the effects of Martin intersection of cycle routes, a Hanseatic Paul Cathedral with the works of the Luther, a Garden Dream, industrial city again since 2008. Naumburg master. history, wine and much more.

26 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 27 boulevard

form the quaint backdrop of the Christmas Fair The Christmas market in the market square. Here, typical culinary in the historic old town delicacies of the Harz region as well as arts and of Quedlinburg. crafts products await you. Every day, the “Remise” presents a festive programme with a fairy tale hour and children’s choir. The famous Wernige- rode Castle – the Neuschwanstein Castle of the North – sits enthroned above all. On one weekend in December, a small Christmas Fair is taking place at the Castle in a romantic ambience. www.wernigerode.de

Christmas magic in Magdeburg Egditha, the half-sister of the English king Aethelstan, was the wife of Otto I, the first emperor of the of German Nation. Her favourite city was Magdeburg, the city at the river Elbe. In front of the unique setting of the historical town hall and at the feet of the world famous “Magdeburg horseman” – considered to be the oldest post-antique free- standing equestrian statue in Germany – the smell of candy floss, roasted almonds, waffles and hot wine invites you to stroll around the Magdeburg Christmas Fair. The historical fairy tale forest, the fairy tale alley and the Magde- burg festival of lights are special attractions of this market, which is, by the way, opened for the longest time among all German Christmas Fairs! Welcome to the Advent and www.weihnachtsmarkt-magdeburg.de Christmas Fair in Halle (Saale), Handel’s city of birth Christmas Fairs in Saxony-Anhalt Halle on the river Saale is the native city of George Frederic Handel. Every year, the Christmas This is the charm of the Christmas Fairs in Saxony-Anhalt: You will find them at original locations of German history in cities Fair in Halle opens its gates from 26 November which are still wearing a medieval garment. Dr Martin Luther, the great German Reformer, taught at the university of the to 23 December. Many fairground showmen, today’s Lutherstadt Wittenberg. He was born in Lutherstadt Eisleben, where he also died. One of the most beautiful German stalls and the festive programme on the stages Christmas carols was written by Martin Luther: “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”. as well as the traditional fairy tale forest give this market its character. A sea of lights is Christmas with Luther in Lutherstadt Christmas Fair and illuminating the way from the Old Market to Wittenberg and Lutherstadt Eisleben Advent in the courtyards of Quedlinburg the Market Square of Halle. Churches, theatres, The church where Luther gave his sermons with The UNESCO-World Heritage City of Quedlinburg the Opera House and other venues attract adults Cathedral in a charming and cosy atmosphere. Mulled wine and a lot of its magnificent winged altar by Lucas Cranach is nearly 1.100 years old. Every year in December and kids with Advent and Christmas carols as The festively decorated historical houses around other treats invite you to the the Elder is framed by splendid Renaissance the smell of Christmas specialities transcends the well as with Christmas fairy tales. Naumburg’s Market Square are a stunning Christmas Fair of Magdeburg, town houses and gives the market square, the medieval alleys: The city surprises with one of the www.halle.eu, www.stadtmarketing-halle.de setting for the Christmas Fair. “Christmas in the capital city of Saxony- site of the Wittenberg Christmas Fair, its unique most beautiful Christmas Markets. The splendid the courtyards” leads you to various discoveries Anhalt. (upper photo) The Wernigerode Christmas backdrop. Around the market, in the courtyards backdrop in front of the historical Town Hall, half- Dessau-Rosslau under the Christmas tree inside the wonderful old courtyards of the Fair in a historical setting is of the Old Town with its century-long history, timbered houses and above all the Castle and the The Christmas Fair of Dessau-Rosslau at the historical houses. The churches of Naumburg one of the most popular the Wittenberg Advent courtyards – whether mighty Collegiate Church provides pre-Christmas Dessau Market livens up Kurt Weill‘s city of birth invite you to attend Christmas concerts. The Christmas Fairs in Saxony- historical, alternative or fairy-tale – conjure up enchantment. The 2nd and 3rd Advent let you festively and welcomes its young visitors in a historical tram of Naumburg offers nostalgia Anhalt. (lower photo) their own atmosphere for young and old. experience Quedlinburg from a very charming side. historical ambience onto the “Christmas Fair for journeys on weekends in Advent. Every year, Christmas lights illuminate the city Medieval courtyards will be opened for you and let children”. The Church of St Mary in close proximity www.naumburg.de centre of Martin Luther’s birthplace. Alongside you marvel at the unique beauty and the captivating offers a very special kind of a Christmas Fair programmes for families or children a Christmassy flair of this city. Just come and see: Quedlinburg within its walls: craftsmen, artist and ancient Christkindlmarket at Baroque Bad Lauchstädt treasury of songs sounds from the Christmas will warm your heart during Christmas time. minstrels offer special products of local crafts in Still today, you can enjoy performances at the stage. An annual attraction is the Fairytale Forest www.adventsstadt.de, www.quedlinburg.de a romantic atmosphere. Fairy tale hours, advent original Goethe Theatre, where Goethe was theatre under the Christmas tree. And without any music and the brick setting of the St Mary‘s director once. Furthermore, you can just simply doubt, the star of the Christmas Fair is Santa Wernigerode Christmas Fair Church provide the splendour of Christmas. experience a wonderful Christmas in sleepy Bad Claus, who is accompanied – every year – by the The “colourful city north of the Harz mountains” www.dessau-rosslau.de Lauchstädt, where once the elegant society took Christmas Angel. The Eisleben Christmas Fair is with its well-kept half-timbered houses, the their cures: With an interesting offer of regional Romantic Christmas Fair deemed to be one of the most beautiful events really magnificent Town Hall, the “leaning Naumburg Christmas Fair ceramics and pottery, but most of all with its great in the city of Handel, Halle at the foothills of the Harz mountains. house” and all the other buildings, which were Every year the pre-Christmas period is comfortably Baroque setting the market is quite an experience. (Saale). www.eisleben.eu constructed between the 14th and 18th century, capturing the fascinating city with its unique www.goethe-theater-bad-lauchstaedt.de

28 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 29 culinary active

A romantic journey with the Harz narrow-gauge railway Superb wining and is a must for everyone. dining in Saxony-Anhalt The Harz mountains by steam The Harz mountains are In the five regions of Saxony-Anhalt, one has always wined and dined well. Thereby a number of very popular among hikers regional specialities have been created, which we would like to present to you in our guide to the and winter sport enthusiasts. cuisines of Saxony-Anhalt. Not only lots of untouched natural landscapes and a landscape to dream of and a who said that he could likewise medieval towns full of region with history and stories. bite in a wooden plate, because half-timbered houses, but Here, grapes have been cultivated the meat of the poor animal also the Harz narrow-gauge since the 10th century. The was totally fat free. With or railway can be found in this, northernmost quality wine- without deer: People in Anhalt the northernmost mountain growing region in Germany always knew how to eat well: range in Germany. The rail covers only 1640 acres (664 ha), Poultry filled with red beets, company’s steam engines but because of its changeful butter-roasted bratwurst on travel Europe’s longest history it has an extraordinary rice pudding, legs of pork with historical rail network, which wide range and quality of wines. plums, roses and pistachios is nearly 130 kilometres long. More than 30 types of grapes or “Heaven and Earth”, a dish Ascending the Brocken are cultivated here. More than made of potatoes (“Earth”) mountain, visitors can retrace 40 wine-growing estates and and wine-stewed pear slices or the steps of Goethe and visit Germany’s largest sparkling apple puree (“Heaven”) with the original settings for his wine producer, Rotkäppchen- roasted bratwurst and delicate play ‘Faust’. On 30 April, the Mumm Sparkling Wine Cellar in slivered pork belly indicate traditional Walpurgisnacht Freyburg, benefit from the almost a cuisine, which is not really [Witches Dancing Festival], southern weather conditions, the diet fare. Anhalt’s specialities witches and devils can be include also Anhalt asparagus The joy of nature – Relaxing continental climate of the river encountered in the Harz valleys of Saale and Unstrut. or original Dessau bacon mountains, and visitors can From August to September a quiche. in Saxony-Anhalt surrender themselves to number of Vintage Festivals are www.tourismusregion-wittenberg.de the mystic of the Walpurgis taking place. The numerous Colourful orchids blossom in the biosphere reserves, while bizarre gypsum shapes lead to festival. castles, palaces and cathedrals German tree cake, extraordinary worlds. The largest continuous riverside forest in central Europe, wonderfully www.hsb-wr.de of the region are romantic! asparagus and fragrant herb meadows, broad plains and natural river areas. Witches Dance at the Picnic in the wine growing Cheese, trout, highland cattle: www.saale-unstrut-tourismus.de wedding soup: Witches Dance Ground: region of Saale-Unstrut. The culinary Harz region Food from the Altmark region Walpurgis Night In Saxony-Anhalt, nine natural landscapes Harz national park The “Harz cheese” is the best A whole empire of chocolate On the first Wednesday of offer plenty of space to get active or to relax. This 24,700 hectare park lies right in the heart Every year, during the night known speciality from the One of the oldest chocolate each month and every Sunday The landscape between the Harz and Fläming, of Germany, with wildly romantic spruce forests, from 30 April to 1 May, the Harz region, it is a low-fat factories in Germany, the Hallo- in the Altmark city Salzwedel, Drömling and the Saale-Unstrut-Triasland rugged rocky outcrops, untouched moorland and witches of Walpurgis are cheese, which is prepared by ren Chocolate Factory in Halle, you can witness how the great natural park is unique. Protected for the future deep valleys. Those who want to discover nature gathering together from all old home recipes. The “Harz has been producing its sweet delicacy of the Altmark region and used in a sustainable way. Threatened around the Brocken mountain, rich in myths and four cardinal directions at highland cattle” is a special seductions since 1804. Here, you will be produced in the city plant and animal species can develop undisturbed. unusual species, in a very special way can join the Witches Dance Ground breed of beef cattle from the will experience confectionary at centre: Bakers are baking Ger- Man and nature live as one, protecting the a ranger-led tour through the ancient mountain (“”) near Harz region, which was almost the highest level. A whole living man tree cake over open fires precious legacy. wilderness or hike along the devilishly beautiful in the Harz region. extinct. Well-conducted restau- room entirely made of chocolate in public. The Altmark region Harz Witches Way (Harzer-Hexen-Stieg), or one of The Walpurgis night heralds rants have already put “Harz will be presented to you at the was home to the Imperial the many other routes. the start of the Nordic highland cattle” on their menu headquarters’ chocolate museum. Chancellor Bismarck, a true www.harzinfo.de summer. According to card. Of course, the Harz region An illusion from the land of gourmand. Bismarck loved it legend, witches would first also has abundant deer and Cockaigne became true. The good and solid: Roast goose, meet at the Witches Dance Culinary Tips trout, which have their homes play of colours of the ornaments deer, and fish specialities. At Ground to fly afterwards “Culinary delights as in Lynx in the Harz in swift-flowing water. Enjoy composed of cassettes is based the largest lake of Saxony- together to the Blocksberg Goethe’s days” The nine nature kingdoms at a glance national park all this with a glass of Hasse­ on the alternation of whole milk Anhalt, the lake, the mountain, better known as www.lauchstedter- You can find everything you need to know about the biosphere reserves, nature röder beer and after the meal and bittersweet chocolate coating. vendace is caught. In a local parks and the national park, tips on excursions and guided tours in the region and the Brocken, where Lord gaststuben.de with a herb-flavoured liquor A chocolate dream. fishery you can purchase the a wide range of sporting activities on the websites of the nine nature landscapes. Urian, the devil, is waiting Quedlinburg in 3 courses – “Schierker Feuerstein” – and www.halloren.de freshly smoked salmon-like · Middle Elbe Biosphere Reserve: www.mittelelbe.com for them to have a jamboree · Southern Harz Biosphere Reserve: www.bioreskarstsuedharz.de a guided tour with culinary you will have lived healthy! fish, which lives exclusively before on the next morning · National Park Harz: www.nationalpark-harz.de pleasures. www.harzinfo.de Cuisines full of ideas in lakes with a certain depth. · Nature Park Drömling: www.naturpark-droemling.de the reign is handed over to www.quedlinburg.de in the Garden Dreams Every year until 24 June the · Nature Park Dübener Heide: www.naturpark-duebenerheide.com the shining lights. Every year, · Nature Park Fläming: www.naturpark-flaeming.de The Cranach House’ Wine and sparkling wine from of Dessau-Wörlitz, Anhalt- good Altmark asparagus can this infernal fascination, the · Nature Park Harz: www.harzregion.de “Barbara Table” in the the South of Saxony-Anhalt Dessau-Wittenberg district be found on all menu cards of · Nature Park Saale-Unstrut-Triasland: www.naturpark-saale-unstrut.de Walpurgis Night, inspires the Lutherstadt Wittenberg Here in the South, you will find Martin Luther did not think well-conducted restaurants. · Nature Park Lower Saale Valley: www.unteres-.de Harz region. www.wittenberg.de a wine that makes you swoon, much of venison. It was him www.altmarktourismus.de www.thale.de

30 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 31 service saxony-anhalt in europe

TRAVEL CONNECTIONS BY BIKE, CAR, BUS OR TRAIN AND PLANE

Saxony-Anhalt is situated at the heart of and an efficient light railway system internet: www.insa.de, Germany and borders on , ensure short and convenient travelling to www.bahn.de/sachsen-anhalt Thuringia, Saxony and Brandenburg. all important sights in Saxony-Anhalt. * 3.9 ct/min from a German landline, Distances from the state capital of max. 42 ct/min from a mobile, only Magdeburg: 150 km to Berlin, 280 km Bus and rail information: from the German landline to Hamburg, 420 km to /Main INSA – Information on buses and trains: Bicycles are carried free of charge Iceland and 225 km to Frankfurt/. Halle phone: +49 18 01 331010*; on all RE, RB and S-Bahn trains in (Saale) the largest city in Saxony-Anhalt landline: +49 391 5363180; Saxony-Anhalt.

Hamburg 2.000 km (1200 miles) Hamburg B189 Finland

B190n Norway A39 B 71 Estonia Stendal B188 Berlin 1.000 km (600 miles) Latvia

B188 A14 Potsdam Denmark Vilnius Frank- Ireland 500 km (300 miles) Belarus A2 furt/Oder Poland Magdeburg A2 Great A391 Britain Magdeburg Warsaw Netherlands London Hanover Kiev Brussels Leipzig A9 Ukraine A395 Belgium Cochstedt Zerbst B184 Prague B 6 Luxembourg Czechia Slowakia B 81 Moldova A14 Chisinau B180 Dessau- Lutherstadt B187 Vienna Hungary B 6 Wörlitz A7 Roßlau Wittenberg France Romania Berne Wernigerode Switzerland Quedlinburg Bucharest B242 Croatia Bosnia- Herzegovina Serbia B 4 Belgrade B 80 Montenegro Motorway Spain A 38 Halle Rome (Saale) Macedonia Motorway Lisbon Albania B 86 Leipzig under construction or in planning phase Greece A 71 Federal Athènes Frankfurt/Main A-Road

A4 Maine-line Railway Nuremberg/ Nuremberg Airport Munich Address IMPRINT IMG Investment and Marketing Publisher: IMG Investment and Marketing Corporation Saxony-Anhalt, Am Alten Theater 6, 39104 Magdeburg, Germany, phone +49 391 56899-63, fax +49 391 56899-50, [email protected], www.invest-in-saxony-anhalt.com Concept: Hoffmann und Partner Werbeagentur Corporation Saxony-Anhalt GmbH, Magdeburg Design: www.genese.de Printing and further processing: Stelzig-Druck, Magdeburg Translation: Jeanne Hoffmann Am Alten Theater 6 Proofreading and editing: George Wolter Photo credits: Archives Regional Associations, Archive Cathedral Treasury Office Halberstadt, Archive Evangelisches Kirchenspiel Halberstadt e. V., Archive Investment and Marketing Corporation Saxony-Anhalt, Archive State Winery Bad 39104 Magdeburg Kösen, Archive United Cathedral Canons of Naumburg, Merseburg and Collegiate Church Zeitz, Hoffmann und Partner Werbeagentur Magdeburg Germany with permission of the Cathedral and Cathedral Treasury Office Halberstadt, J. Lipták/Landesamt für Denkmalpflege und Archäo­logie Halle/Saale, phone +49 391 56899-63 Saale-Unstrut-Tourismus e. V./Biel, TourismusRegion Wittenberg e. V., T. Ziegler, E. Kreim, H. Krieg, J. Wolf, O. Anders, W. Klapper, N. Perner, J. Hohmuth, M. Bader, M. Ulrich, Boris Breuer/Intention/IMG, Jürgen Meusel, Quedlinburg-Tourismus-Marketing GmbH, Sammlung Harzer fax +49 391 56899-50 Schmalspurbahn [email protected] Copy deadline: September 2012; 3rd edition www.saxony-anhalt-tourism.eu The usage of the material for the purpose of professional address disposition to third parties or reprinting – also in extracts – is not permitted.

32 Heartland of German History Heartland of German History 33