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Marien CathedralFounded in 742, Erfurt was a very wealthy medieval town, and it shows. Martin Luther was a student at the university (founded in 1392) before he became a monk in the Augustinian Monastery here in 1505. In 1511 the Augustinians sent him to become a teacher in Wittenberg, but Erfurt always remained as his spiritual home.
Today the old center “Altstadt” is restored and invites travellers for a walk between old churches, welcoming cafés, and unique stores. Most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other in the Altstadt, namely St. Mary’s Cathedral (with the world’s biggest church bell!) and St. Severus at the huge market place.
The Wartburg, a superb medieval castle above the town of Eisenach, has played an important role in many aspects of German history. Most importantly, Martin Luther was hidden here 1521 to 1522 after being put under papal ban. During this time he translated the New Testament into German. It’s since then that ordinary folks can read God’s word in their own language and by themselves! The Bachhaus commemorates composer Johann Sebastian Bach, who was born in Eisenach.