The skyline of Erfurt is shaped by dozens of churches, monasteries, and convents thrusting their pointed steeples upward to the sky. In the Middle Ages, Erfurt was known as "Thuringian Rome" because of its religious orders.

The impressive twin churches on the Domberg (Cathedral Hill), the Roman Catholic St. Mary's Cathedral (14th century) and the Roman Catholic Parish church St. Severus (13th century) with a flight of 70 outdoor steps leading from the Domplatz (Cathedral Square) up the hill to the churches.

The Krämerbrücke (Merchant's Bridge) (1325) is a fascinating work of secular architecture, the original 62 narrow houses on the bridge have, over time been amalgamated to form the present 32 houses and is recognized as the longest bridge of Europe which is completely covered by houses on both sides. 

The Augustinerkloster (Augustinian Monastery) dating back to 1277, is a Gothic monastery complex. Inside there is an exhibition that shows life and work of Martin Luther who lived here as a monk from 1505 till 1511. 

One of the few of almost completely preserved Baroque Citadels in Europe is the Petersberg Citadel (1664-1707). It represents the architectural mastery of fortress construction in the period from the 17th to the 19th century.

The Fischmarkt (Fish Market) is the center of the historical city. Next to the neo-Gothic City Hall (1870-75), with its numerous of lovely mural paintings depicting the history and legends of Thuringia and Erfurt, you will find a number of town houses once owned by rich woad merchants. 

A few steps further there is the notable renovated classical facade of the Kaisersaal (1715), the former old university ballroom. It was here, that Napoleon I. met Tsar Alexander I. at the Erfurt Congress in 1808.

All of these things make Erfurt a veritable picture book of German history. Here the past and present harmonize. In one of Germany's best-preserved medieval town centers, the life of a modern state capital pulses with vitality. Excellent transportation links and a broad selection of first-rate hotels and restaurants ensure that a "rendezvous with Erfurt" will be a worthwhile experience.

Our recommendations:
Take a tour dedicated to following the footsteps of Martin Luther. Then wind up the day in a worldlier manner - with Thuringian dumplings or Thuringian fried sausages.

Erfurt Tourist Office
Phone: +49 (0) 361/ 66 400
service[at]erfurt-tourismus.de
www.erfurt-tourismus.de