The TOP 16 sights in Leipzig
Leipzig, known for its trade fairs and markets since the Middle Ages, is located in the picturesque Saxon lowlands at the confluence of the Weißer Elster and Pleiße rivers. This strategic location on an important trade route gave Leipzig considerable influence as a trading center. After Leipzig was granted the right to hold trade fairs, it developed into Saxony's second metropolis after Dresden.
But Leipzig is much more than just a commercial center. It has developed into a vibrant center for art, culture and the book trade. Here you will find major publishing houses, important libraries such as the German National Library and the famous international book fair. The city has a rich cultural history and is closely associated with the names of great musicians such as Bach and Mendelssohn. Martin Luther also preached here, and Goethe made the Auerbachs Keller world-famous with his "Faust".
Today, Leipzig is one of the most popular tourist destinations in eastern Germany. Due to its rich cultural and musical heritage, the city is often described as one of the most liveable cities in Europe. Leipzig is easy to navigate and the compact old town invites you to take a stroll. But don't be fooled - Leipzig is a city that cannot be explored in one day. Take the time to visit the first-class museums, experience a concert in one of the historic churches and enjoy the famous Leipzig pastries in one of the charming cafés.
If you need comfortable accommodation, we invite you to discover our fully equipped apartments. Visit Leipzig and experience a city that combines history, culture and modern lifestyle in a unique way.
Market and Old Town Hall
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The market square in Leipzig, which has been the vibrant center of city life for many centuries, is dominated by the impressive Old Town Hall. This Renaissance building, which was erected in 1556, is considered one of the most beautiful buildings of its kind in Germany. The tower with its baroque crowning sits asymmetrically above the main entrance, and a covered balcony above it is used for public proclamations, where trumpeters often perform in traditional costumes.
The colonnades along the façade were built in 1907 and replaced the former wooden stores and stalls. But even today you will find numerous stores under the arcades that invite you to stroll and shop. Inside the Old Town Hall, a museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and pictures documenting Leipzig's rich history from the medieval fairs to the "peaceful revolution" of 1989.
The large square in front of the town hall is a lively meeting place. A farmers' market regularly takes place here, offering fresh regional produce. During the city's many music festivals, such as the annual Bach Festival in June, the square is transformed into a stage for impressive performances that fill the city's churches and concert halls with music.
Experience the vibrant history and culture of Leipzig at the historic market and enjoy the special atmosphere of this unique place. If you are looking for charming accommodation to complete your stay in Leipzig, take a look at our comfortable and well-appointed Vacation apartments.
Address: Markt 1, D-04109 Leipzig
The Thomaskirche
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To the south-west of Leipzig's market square stands St. Thomas Church, home to the world-famous St. Thomas Boys Choir. This traditional choir, founded in 1212, the same year in which the church was built, has a long and important history. Originally serving an Augustinian monastery, St. Thomas Church was rebuilt over the centuries and in the 15th century took on the form of a late Gothic hall church, a popular style in Upper Saxony.
The magnificent west façade was created as part of renovation work between 1872 and 1889. Martin Luther preached here in 1539 and the St. Thomas Choir developed into a center of Protestant church music. Today, St. Thomas Church attracts music lovers all year round with regular choir and organ concerts, twice-weekly motets, Bach Passion concerts and the Christmas Oratorio.
Johann Sebastian Bach, who worked as choirmaster at St. Thomas Church from 1723 to 1750, is buried here. A statue in front of the church commemorates his years as choirmaster and his formative influence on music history. Opposite the church is the Bose House, which houses the Bach Research Institute, the Bach Memorial and the Bach Archive.
A visit to St. Thomas Church is an absolute must for anyone interested in music and history. Let yourself be enchanted by the spiritual and musical atmosphere of this historic place. And if you are looking for cozy accommodation to enjoy your stay in Leipzig, then take a look at our superbly equipped vacation apartments. They provide the perfect base from which to explore this fascinating city.
The Monument to the Battle of the Nations
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The imposing Monument to the Battle of the Nations, an outstanding example of Wilhelmine architecture, is one of the most important monuments in Germany. This impressive structure, the largest war memorial in Europe, was completed in 1913 to mark the 100th anniversary of Napoleon's decisive defeat in the Battle of Leipzig in 1813.
Almost 600,000 soldiers clashed on the battlefield in the largest battle in Europe before the First World War. Napoleon's defeat led to his retreat to France and ultimately to his banishment to Elba the following year.
The monument is surrounded by heroic statues, each 12 meters high, guarding the inner chamber of the monument. The spectacular view from the 91-metre-high viewing platform makes up for the strenuous climb - there is no elevator.
Below the monument is a museum documenting the Battle of Leipzig. Here, visitors can learn more about the equipment and military life of the soldiers who took part in this historic battle. The memorial is easy to reach by streetcar, just 15 minutes from the city center.
A visit to the Monument to the Battle of the Nations is an absolute must for history and architecture lovers. Be impressed by the historical significance and impressive architecture of this monument. If you need comfortable accommodation to enjoy your stay in Leipzig, take a look at our first-class furnished vacation apartments. They provide the perfect base from which to explore this fascinating city and its many sights.
Address: Straße des 18. Oktober 100, 04299 Leipzig, Germany
The Leipzig Zoo
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More than just a day trip for children: Leipzig Zoo is one of the best in Germany and offers a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. Over 850 different animal species live here in natural habitats that impressively reflect the diversity of global fauna.
Experience up close how elephants swim through an underwater glass wall, be greeted by the distinctive calls of black howler monkeys and watch playful penguins in action. In the gloomy replica of the Everglades, you can look out for alligators and discover shy koalas in their own eucalyptus forest.
Germany's only Komodo dragon awaits you in tropical surroundings - an impressive lizard that can grow up to three meters long. Float in a boat through a rainforest inhabited by 100 exotic animal species, hike along jungle trails or enjoy the breathtaking bird's eye view from the treetop walkway. Over 24,000 plants create an authentic tropical environment, where you can also discover a garden with 60 exotic fruits and spices.
Another highlight is the volcano tunnel, which allows you to encounter living fossils - creatures that have hardly changed for millions of years. Observe Amur tigers, the largest cats in the world, in a recreated Siberian landscape. On the terrace of Kiwara Lodge, enjoy the panoramic view of the savannah, where giraffes munch on leaves and zebras gallop past ostriches, oryx, gazelles and flamingos.
Since 2017, the high mountain landscape of the Himalayas with snow leopards and red pandas as well as the renovated walk-in aviary with griffon vultures have been inspiring visitors. One of the largest aquariums in Germany invites you to discover a colorful underwater world with colorful fish and living corals, while reef sharks and other species swim in circles around the visitors.
Leipzig Zoo offers an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines education, adventure and relaxation. When planning your stay in Leipzig, remember to book our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments. They provide the ideal base from which to explore this fascinating city and its many attractions.
Museum of Fine Arts
Arts Leipzig
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Although the Museum of Fine Arts is housed in one of Leipzig's most modern architectural marvels, its foundation dates back to 1837. It only moved into its spacious new home in 2004. As one of Germany's most important national cultural institutions, the museum houses more than 3,500 paintings ranging from the Middle Ages to the present day, including outstanding works by Dutch, German and Italian masters.
While the museum only shows a few works by the great Old Masters - works by Frans Hals and a unique collection of 18 paintings by the two Lucas Cranachs are the exceptions - the collection of more than 400 paintings by Dutch artists of the 17th century is unique in the world.
More than 700 German works from the 19th century document the development from Classicism through Romanticism to Impressionism and Symbolism. The impressive collection of 55,000 drawings and prints includes works by artists such as William Hogarth, Daniel Chodowiecki and Anton von Dyck. Particularly noteworthy is the comprehensive collection of works in all genres by Max Klinger, including 70 sculptures.
The building itself is a glass cube, 36 meters high, with courtyards and terraces that showcase some of the larger three-dimensional works. Its design reflects Leipzig's traditional arcades and creates a harmonious link between modern architecture and the city's rich cultural history.
A visit to the Museum of Fine Arts offers a fascinating journey through art history and the opportunity to experience masterpieces from different eras up close. If you are visiting Leipzig, you should not miss this cultural treasure trove. For a pleasant stay in Leipzig, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the perfect accommodation to enjoy the city and its many sights to the full.
The Church of St. Nicholas
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Built in the 12th century, St. Nicholas Church was rebuilt several times over the centuries and was given its current neoclassical appearance around 1700. The entire interior of the church is bright white, with fluted columns that rise up to form capitals from which palm fronds seem to emerge and which support the elaborately notched ceiling. This surprising decorative accent adds a special touch to the otherwise neoclassical interior.
Several works by Johann Sebastian Bach, who was music director both here and in St. Thomas Church, were premiered in St. Nicholas Church. The church's organ is considered one of the best in Europe and attracts music lovers from all over the world.
A memorial in the Nikolaikirchhof courtyard, which echoes the design of the columns and their palm capitals, commemorates the church's historical role as a meeting place for the peaceful demonstrations against socialist rule in East Germany in 1989. These uprisings, known as the Monday demonstrations, began spontaneously on September 4, 1989 after the weekly prayer for peace in the Nikolaikirche.
The demonstrations continued every Monday, culminating on October 9, when some 70,000 peaceful protesters with burning candles confronted an armed security force of 8,000 who had been ordered to shoot. The non-violence and sheer size of the crowd convinced the security forces not to shoot, which became known as the "Miracle of Leipzig". These events inspired similar demonstrations in other East German cities and ultimately led to the reunification of Germany.
A visit to the Nikolaikirche not only offers an insight into the impressive architecture and history of the building, but also into the moving events that contributed to the reunification of Germany. If you are exploring Leipzig, you should definitely put this important church on your list. For comfortable accommodation during your stay, our well-equipped vacation apartments provide the ideal base from which to discover the fascinating city of Leipzig in all its facets.
Address: Nikolaikirchhof 3, 04109 Leipzig
Mädlerpassage and Naschmarkt
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Opposite one end of the Old Town Hall is the entrance to the Mädlerpassage, one of the charming historic shopping arcades that wind their way through the buildings in the heart of Leipzig's old town. This passage leads to two others, the Königshofpassage and the Messehofpassage. Originally, these covered alleyways connected the merchants' houses and stores during the trade fair and offered protection from the weather. Over time, they developed into the elegant arcades they are today.
Other European cities have similar arcades, but nowhere else has such an extensive network been preserved. These covered streets are worth a visit not only for the stores, cafés and restaurants they house, but also for their fascinating décor. In several places, they open up into covered courtyards, and in others, smaller passages intersect, adding to their unique charm.
The decorations range from a beautiful ceiling made of embossed leather to modern tiled artworks in an inner courtyard. In the Mädlerpassage, look out for the statue of Faust and Mephistopheles that stands in front of Auerbachs Keller. This popular restaurant is famous for being the setting for Goethe's infamous cellar scene from his "Faust". Goethe was a frequent guest of the cellar, as was Martin Luther.
Opposite the entrance to the Mädlerpassage, behind the Old Town Hall, is the Naschmarkt, a quiet little square that was laid out in 1556. On the north side of this square is the Alte Handelsbörse, an early baroque building dating from 1678.
A visit to the Mädlerpassage and its neighboring arcades offers a unique opportunity to experience the historical and cultural atmosphere of Leipzig. If you would like to stay overnight in Leipzig, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the perfect starting point for discovering this fascinating city and its many sights.
To the Arabian Coffee Tree
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The Coffe Baum is one of the oldest coffee houses in Europe that still exists in its original form. It was opened in 1717 and has preserved a rich history ever since.
This historic coffee house honors its heritage with a fascinating museum of coffee that encompasses 15 rooms on the upper floors of the building. More than 500 artifacts tell the story of coffee and the rise of coffee house culture in Saxony, where many believe the German passion for coffee originated.
Exhibits in the museum include coffee roasters, different methods and machines for making coffee, old containers and advertisements, as well as early porcelain coffee cups and the special leather cases that were made to protect them. Entry to the museum is free, but it's hard to walk past the display case in the café without indulging in a slice of the famous Baumkuchen.
A visit to the Coffe Baum not only offers a journey into the history of coffee, but also the opportunity to linger in one of the oldest and most charming coffee houses in Europe. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and the rich tradition that this house offers. If you are exploring Leipzig, you should definitely put the Coffe Baum on your list. For cozy accommodation during your stay in this fascinating city, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments provide the ideal base.
Address: Goldschmidtstraße 12, D-04103 Leipzig
The Mendelssohn House
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The Mendelssohn House in Leipzig is the only authentically preserved home of the great composer Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. This house, which was built in 1844 and lived in by the composer and his family from 1845, has been restored according to the original plans and furnished in the popular late Biedermeier style.
In Mendelssohn's study and music salon, visitors can admire the composer's personal belongings, sheet music and watercolors. Documents and display boards also offer in-depth insights into his life and work. In 2014, the museum was expanded to include interactive features, including a video library and the "Effektorium" - a conductor's podium where visitors can conduct a virtual orchestra.
As in Mendelssohn's time, the music salon is used for the weekly Sunday concerts and is also the venue for the Leipzig Piano Summer. In front of St. Thomas Church, in a small park, there is also a statue honoring Mendelssohn.
A visit to the Mendelssohn House offers a fascinating journey into the life of one of the most important composers of the 19th century. Experience the authentic atmosphere of his home and the impressive interactive exhibitions. If you are visiting Leipzig, you should definitely put the Mendelssohn House on your list. Our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer you the perfect base from which to enjoy this culturally rich city to the full.
The New City Hall
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The impressive New Town Hall, a monumental building in the late German Renaissance style, rises majestically on the south-western corner of Leipzig's old town. This architectural masterpiece, which was completed in 1905, stands on the historic site of the 13th century Pleißenburg castle, with parts of the old castle integrated into the 115-metre-high central tower.
The New Town Hall is not only an important example of the German late Renaissance, but also a symbol of Leipzig's eventful history. The building impresses with its richly decorated façade, which is adorned with ornate stone carvings and sculptures. Particularly noteworthy are the numerous allegorical figures that adorn the building and depict themes such as justice, wisdom and bravery. These artistic details invite a closer look and tell of the craftsmanship of the time.
The splendor continues inside the town hall. The spacious entrance area impresses with a generous staircase flanked by marble columns. The ceilings are decorated with elaborate stucco work and paintings depicting scenes from Leipzig's history. The ballroom, which is decorated with magnificent chandeliers and murals, is particularly worth seeing. This room is still used today as a venue for important city events and prestigious occasions.
A highlight of the New Town Hall is the 115-metre-high central tower, which offers a breathtaking view over the city. Anyone who dares to climb it will be rewarded with a panoramic view that extends far into the surrounding countryside on a clear day. The tower is not only a reminder of the former Pleißenburg, but also symbolizes the connection between past and present.
A visit to the New Town Hall also offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in Leipzig's history. Numerous exhibits and historical documents are on display in the corridors and rooms, telling the story of the city's political and social developments. From its medieval beginnings to the heyday of the Renaissance and the challenges of the 20th century - the New Town Hall is a living history book that takes visitors on an exciting journey through time.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the New Town Hall is also a vibrant part of modern Leipzig. The offices of the Lord Mayor and many municipal authorities are located here, and the building is a center of the city's political life. Regular guided tours offer insights into the work of the administration and the architecture of the building.
The New Town Hall in Leipzig is therefore much more than just an impressive building. It is a place of encounter, history and culture. A visit is worthwhile for anyone who wants to get to know the city and its rich past. And if you are looking for cozy accommodation after a day of exploring, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the ideal retreat to relax and reflect on the impressions of the day. Experience Leipzig in all its diversity and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of this fascinating city.
Address: Martin-Luther-Ring 4-6, 04109 Leipzig
Grassi Museum
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The Grassi Museum, one of Leipzig's most important cultural institutions, was founded in 1895 and moved to its current impressive building in 1929. The museum is an architectural masterpiece and a cultural center that unites three excellent museums under one roof: the Museum of Ethnography, the Museum of Applied Arts and the Museum of Musical Instruments. Each of these areas offers a fascinating journey through different aspects of human culture and creativity.
The Museum of Ethnography is home to one of the most extensive collections of ethnological artifacts in Germany. It offers a deep insight into the cultures of the world, from the indigenous peoples of the Americas to the traditional societies of Africa, Asia and Oceania. Visitors can discover everything from ritual masks and costumes to everyday objects and works of art. The exhibition highlights the diversity and richness of cultural practices and sheds light on the social, religious and economic aspects of the different societies.
The Museum of Applied Arts is a real gem for lovers of design and craftsmanship. The collection includes masterpieces from various eras, from antiquity to modern times. The exhibits from the Renaissance and Baroque periods are particularly impressive, including filigree goldsmith work, ornate furniture and magnificent textiles. Modern design objects and innovative works of art show how the applied arts have developed over the centuries and what role they play today. The exhibitions offer an inspiring look at the combination of functionality and aesthetics.
The Museum of Musical Instruments is a special attraction for music lovers and researchers. It houses one of the world's largest collections of historical musical instruments, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Highlights include rare and valuable instruments such as baroque violins, historic pianos and unique wind instruments. The practical sound laboratories and interactive exhibitions allow visitors to explore the development of musical instruments and their soundscapes in an exciting way. Extensive archives and scientific collections also provide valuable resources for research.
Another highlight of the Grassi Museum is the impressive architecture of the building itself. The building in the New Objectivity style combines functionality with aesthetic elegance and provides the ideal setting for the diverse collections. The central courtyard and the spacious exhibition halls invite visitors to linger and explore.
During your visit to Leipzig, you should also take time to visit the impressive main railway station, which is just a short walk from the Grassi Museum. Built in 1915, it is the largest railroad station in Europe and an impressive example of early 20th century architecture. With its spacious concourse and numerous stores and restaurants, the main station is not only a transportation hub, but also a lively meeting place and a fascinating place to explore.
The Grassi Museum and Leipzig Central Station are two outstanding sights that reflect the city's rich cultural and historical diversity. If you are visiting Leipzig, you should definitely put both places on your list. Our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the ideal starting point for discovering these and many other attractions in Leipzig. Experience the city in all its facets and enjoy an unforgettable stay in one of Germany's most culturally rich cities.
Address: Johannisplatz 5-11, 04103 Leipzig
New Gewandhaus
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Leipzig University
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The dominant feature of Augustusplatz is the imposing 34-storey building of Leipzig University, which stands out with its towering Panorama Tower - Plate of Art, a café 110 meters above the city. Leipzig University, one of the oldest universities in the world and the second oldest in Germany, was founded in 1409. Despite the destruction of more than 60 percent of its buildings during the Second World War, it has been preserved and developed as an important educational institution.
Today, Leipzig University is home to four impressive museums. The Egyptian Museum displays a fascinating collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, sculptures and everyday objects that illustrate the life and culture of the ancient Egyptians. The Museum of Musical Instruments offers an extensive collection of historical instruments that trace the development of music and instrument making from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The Museum of Antiquities is another highlight that transports visitors into the world of Greek and Roman antiquity. Sculptures, vases, coins and other artefacts illustrating the artistic and cultural achievements of these classical civilizations are on display here. The university art collection rounds off the museum's offerings and presents a variety of paintings and sculptures dating back to the Middle Ages, providing a deep insight into the history of art.
A remarkable architectural detail is the 1836 Schinkel gate integrated into the lecture hall block, a remnant of the old university. Equally impressive is the preserved entrance building, the Augusteum, which is also part of the historic university complex.
Close to the university is the old Moritzbastei, a bastion dating back to 1515 and the only remaining relic of the old city fortifications. The Moritzbastei has been rebuilt several times over the centuries and today serves as a cultural center and event venue known for its lively program of concerts, theater performances and exhibitions.
A visit to Leipzig University and its museums not only offers an insight into the city's rich history and cultural diversity, but also the opportunity to experience the impressive architecture and historical significance of this institution. The Panorama Tower - Plate of Art also offers a breathtaking view over the city and is an ideal place to admire Leipzig from a bird's eye view.
If you are visiting Leipzig, you should not miss the university and its museums. Our comfortable and well-equipped apartments provide the perfect base from which to explore these and many other sights in Leipzig. Experience the fascinating mix of history, culture and modern vibrancy that Leipzig has to offer and enjoy an unforgettable stay in this impressive city.
The Botanical Garden
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A particular highlight of the botanical gardens are the large greenhouses, which display a variety of exotic plants from all over the world. These greenhouses offer an impressive collection of cacti as well as subtropical and tropical plants that would be difficult to access in their natural environment. Visitors can wander through the lush tropical landscapes and discover a variety of plant species that are often endangered in their natural habitats.
In addition to the greenhouses, the botanical gardens offer numerous themed gardens and plant collections that provide insights into different ecosystems and plant communities. The medicinal plant garden, the origin of today's facility, displays a variety of herbs and medicinal plants that were and are still used in traditional medicine. This section of the garden offers not only botanical, but also historical and cultural insights into the use of plants for healing.
Another fascinating area is the rock garden, which is home to alpine and mountain plants from different parts of the world. This garden is particularly impressive as it showcases plants that thrive in extreme climatic conditions and are often particularly adaptable.
The aquatic plant collection and pond areas are also worth a visit as they showcase a variety of aquatic and wetland plants. These areas provide not only aesthetic beauty but also ecological education by highlighting the importance of aquatic plants in the conservation of wetlands and aquatic ecosystems.
The Botanical Gardens of Leipzig University are a place of relaxation and learning. They offer a welcome oasis in the middle of the city and are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Regular guided tours and educational programs provide additional information and deepen the understanding of the diversity of the plant world and the importance of the botanical gardens for research and education.
A visit to Leipzig's botanical gardens is a wonderful way to experience nature and learn more about the incredible diversity of the plant world. For your stay in Leipzig, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the ideal starting point for discovering the city's many sights and cultural highlights. Enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the botanical gardens and be enchanted by the green oasis in the middle of the lively city of Leipzig.
Leipzig Cotton Mill
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A fascinating and constantly growing area in Leipzig is the cotton mill in the Lindenau district. This 10-hectare former industrial site was once a major commercial center focused on the cotton trade. In its heyday before the First World War, the complex was a complete community with 20 factories, residential buildings, schools and parks as well as more than 240,000 spindles.
Over the last two decades, the Spinnerei has developed into a cultural hotspot and is now a lively center for art and creativity. The complex houses art galleries, large exhibition spaces, art studios and workshops. Around 100 artists, including fashion and other designers, printers, potters, sculptors, a goldsmith and a porcelain manufacturer, have set up shop here. This diversity of creative talent makes the Spinnerei a vibrant centerpiece of Leipzig's art scene.
In addition to the studios and workshops, the Spinnerei also houses a café, restaurants and a film club, offering visitors a variety of leisure activities. The largest of the Spinnerei buildings has been transformed into a non-profit center for contemporary art and is a major epicenter of Leipzig's vibrant art scene, particularly the "New Leipzig School". This school is known for its innovative and impressive works, which are recognized worldwide.
Another highlight of the complex is perhaps the largest and most comprehensive art supplies store in Europe. This huge supermarket for art and craft materials and tools offers everything an artist's heart desires. An entire wall is dedicated to brushes alone, and the range includes an impressive selection of paints, canvases, sculpture materials and much more.
The Spinnerei is not only a place of art, but also a place of encounter and exchange. Regular events, exhibitions and festivals attract visitors from all over the world and make the Spinnerei a vibrant cultural center.
To get to the Spinnerei, take streetcar 14 from Leipzig Central Station to Plagwitz S-Bahn station. This convenient connection makes the Spinnerei easily accessible and a must for every visitor to Leipzig.
A visit to the Leipzig cotton mill is a journey into the creative soul of the city. This is where the industrial past meets the artistic present and future. For an unforgettable stay in Leipzig, our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the ideal starting point for discovering these and many other sights. Immerse yourself in the creative world of the Spinnerei and be inspired by the unique atmosphere of this historic yet modern area.
Memorial Museum in the "Round Corner
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Since 1990, visitors to the memorial and museum of the former headquarters of the Ministry of State Security (Stasi) in Leipzig have been able to immerse themselves in contemporary history. This poignant setting offers a unique opportunity to understand the mechanisms of surveillance and repression in the GDR.
The Stasi Museum on Dittrichring in Leipzig impresses with a variety of fascinating exhibits. Forged stamps, fake beards, special cameras and tools for secretly opening mail are just some of the many artifacts that illustrate the Stasi's sophisticated methods. The memorial is located in the perfectly preserved rooms of the former State Security headquarters for the Leipzig district, a building that served as a symbol of repression in the GDR for over 40 years.
The permanent exhibition entitled "Stasi - Power and Banality" sheds light on the structure and methods of the notorious GDR secret service. Visitors gain an in-depth insight into the bureaucratic processes and everyday surveillance that shaped the lives of many GDR citizens. Original documents, listening devices and other surveillance paraphernalia illustrate the omnipresent control and influence of the Stasi.
A particularly moving chapter of the exhibition is the section on the occupation of the Leipzig Stasi headquarters by the "Monday demonstrators" on December 4, 1989, a high point of the Peaceful Revolution. These events marked the beginning of the end of the Stasi and ultimately the GDR itself. The exhibition, most of which was created during the Peaceful Revolution in 1990, impressively shows how the power of the people can bring about change.
The rooms of the former headquarters, also known as the building at the "Runden Ecke", are more than just a museum. They are a living testimony to the past, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the time. The exhibition shows how people in the GDR were monitored and oppressed, and at the same time conveys the hope and courage that led to overcoming this regime.
A visit to the Stasi Museum Leipzig is not only an educational journey into the past, but also an impressive reminder of the importance of freedom and democracy. The museum offers regular guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the artifacts on display and the history of the Stasi.
If you are visiting Leipzig, you should take the opportunity to explore this important memorial. Our comfortable and well-equipped vacation apartments offer the ideal starting point for discovering the Stasi Museum and many other sights in the city. Experience Leipzig in all its historical and cultural diversity and be inspired by the moving history of this fascinating city.
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