Wittenberg, Saxony-Anhalt

The Altstadt of Wittenberg as seen from Schlosskirche
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:AltstadtWittenberg.jpg
Author: Fred3rik


Wittenberg is a city in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. It is renowned for its association with Martin Luther and the birth of Protestant Reformation. Many of the buildings in Wittenberg associated with Luther have been recognized as a World Heritage Site, under the title "Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg".

Wittenberg covers 240 sq km (93 sq mi) and has a population of 50,000 people (2012 estimate). Its history is traced to a village founded by Flemish colonists in 1180. In 1260 it became the residence of the dukes of Saxe-Wittenberg.

The founding of the University of Wittenberg in 1502 provided a place for great thinkers such as Martin Luther and Philipp Melanchthon to ferment their ideas. Luther made history when he nailed his 95 theses against the selling of indulgences on the door of the Schlosskirche on 31 October, 1517, setting in motion activities that became the Protestant Reformation.

Interior of Schlosskirche, Wittenberg
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wittenberg_-_Schlosskirche_innen_1.jpg
Author: Michael Schmalenstroer


As with elsewhere in the region, Wittenberg was occupied by the French during the Napoleonic Wars in 1806. In 1815 it became part of the Prussian Province of Saxony. Under the Nazis, the town had an aircraft factory staffed by slave laborers who were mostly Jews, Russians, Poles and even a few Americans. The factory was bombed by US and British forced near the end of the war, killing over a thousand workers.

Wittenberg became part of East Germany until German reunification in 1990. Today the town has been restored and is a tourist destination for its Luther-related sites. The Schlosskirche, where Luther nailed his theses, also holds his tomb. Also preserved is the St Mary's Church, where Luther often preached, as well as his home, Lutherhaus.

How to go to Wittenberg

Wittenberg is located to the southwest of Berlin, near the border between the states of Saxony-Anhalt with Brandenburg to the north. From Berlin, take Autobahn 9 heading southwest till interchange with Highway 187, then head east on Highway 187 to reach Wittenberg.

Wittenberg Town Hall with the Luther Memorial in front
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rathaus_Wittenberg.JPG
Author: Michael Sander

Places of Interest in Wittenberg

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