wittenberg tourist information

11 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wittenberg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 30, 2022

The lovely old university town of Wittenberg – officially known as Lutherstadt Wittenberg – is well-known as the birthplace of Martin Luther's Reformation. Located on the north bank of the River Elbe in the southern foothills of the Fläming range, it was here that Luther, a local resident and preacher, famously nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church (Schlosskirche), an event that ultimately marked the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.

Little surprise, then, that Luther's legacy is evident everywhere in Wittenberg and is much celebrated by its townspeople and visitors. The town boasts a number of excellent cultural sites and events, including a first-rate professional theater, as well as an open-air theater. Musical performances and events such as the popular Wittenberg Renaissance Music Festival are also big tourist draws.

Find the best places to visit in this charming town with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Lutherstadt Wittenberg.

1. The Castle Church (Schlosskirche)

2. meet the instigator of the reformation at lutherhaus museum, 3. meander through the marktplatz, 4. get outdoors at fläming nature park, 5. visit the historic parish church of st. mary, 6. travel back in time at luther 1517 - wittenberg 360°, 7. melanchthon house, 8. cranach house, 9. take a stroll around piesteritz workers' estate, 10. learn about wittenberg's past at the museum of town history, 11. let the kids run wild at wittenberg zoo.

The lovely Late Gothic Castle Church (Schlosskirche), built in 1500 as All Saints Church, is now better known as the Reformation Memorial Church due to its ties with Martin Luther. It was to the church's original wooden doors that Luther nailed his famous 95 Theses in 1517.

Although the original doors were destroyed during the Seven Years War, the present bronze replacements, installed in 1858, bear their Latin text. Inside are life-size alabaster statues of Electors Frederick the Wise and John the Constant of Saxony-Wittenberg, the tombs of Luther and fellow Reformer Melanchthon, and the Early Renaissance monument of Elector Frederick III from 1527. On the columns of the nave are life-size figures of Luther, Melanchthon, and other Reformers.

Be sure to visit the church's unusual rounded tower with its extensive views over the town. Admission is via guided tours only, which are available from the Info Center. English language services are held regularly (check their website for schedules). Regular concerts and music programs are also held and are well worth attending.

Address: Wilhelm-Weber-Straße 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: www.schlosskirche-wittenberg.de/index.php/en/

Lutherhaus, or "Luther House," is where Reformer Martin Luther lived from 1508 to 1546. It was built in 1504 and originally used as a house by Augustinian Hermits. An addition, the Augusteum, was added in 1598 and served for a time as a boarding school. Lutherhaus was later converted into a museum dedicated to the Reformation in 1883, and is the world's largest museum devoted to this important religious movement.

The museum's focal point is Luther's living room, the "Lutherstube," which has been meticulously preserved in its original condition. This room remains the same to this day, although the museum gradually grew its collection to include displays of Luther's writings and prints, his medals, university lectern, pulpit from St. Mary's Church , and a number of valuable paintings. Guided tours are available (advance booking is recommended).

Address: Collegienstraße 54, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Wittenberg's old market square, the Marktplatz (Marketplace) has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and is home to numerous important historic buildings and tourist attractions. One of the most interesting is the handsome Old Town Hall (Rathaus), built in 1540 and notable for its four Renaissance gables and Late Gothic windows. Also worth seeing is the 16th-century balcony over its entrance.

The building is also known for its rich decoration, including allegorical figures and columns and a statue of the goddess Justitia with scales and sword. Immediately adjoining the Town Hall are the Market Fountain from 1617 and early 19th-century bronze statues of Martin Luther and fellow Reformer, Philip Melanchthon.

Address: Kirchpl. 2, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Wittenberg is also an important destination for nature lovers thanks to the Fläming Nature Park (Naturpark Fläming). Established in 2005 and covering an area of 824 square kilometers, this large area of outstanding natural beauty (one of six in the state) consists of important elements of the Fläming low mountain range, of which Wittenberg is a part, and protects a diverse mix of old forests, scenic meadows, and farmland.

Whether you're hiking or biking, or simply doing a driving tour of the area, a good place to start your sightseeing adventure is the visitor center in Jeber-Bergfrieden , a pleasant half-hour drive northwest of Wittenberg. From here, you can gather information regarding the park's many well-marked nature and hiking trails (some suitable for all levels of fitness), as well as details of biking trails, tours, and rentals, along with popular driving routes.

It's easy to spend the best part of the day exploring the park, which encompasses a number of old fortifications, including Zerbst Castle . There are also many historic villages and towns to explore ( Coswig is a must-visit), many of them set against some of the most attractive countryside to be found in this part of Germany.

For those with the time (and the energy), just a little farther north is the equally attractive High Fläming Nature Park (Naturpark Hoher Fläming). Covering an area of 827 square kilometers, it also boasts a good visitor center and plenty of opportunities for fun outdoor activities.

Address: Schloßstraße 13, 06868 Coswig (Anhalt)

The oldest building in Wittenberg – and quite possibly the most important – is the aisled Gothic Parish Church of St. Mary (Stadtkirche St. Marien). Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the church is famous the world over as the place where Luther frequently preached, and has been dubbed the "Mother Church of the reformation."

Notable features include the building's twin octagonal spires, constructed in 1558 in Renaissance style, and its winged altar from 1547 designed by Lucas Cranach the Elder. Also of interest is the richly decorated font from 1457, an organ noted for its fine tone, and a number of paintings by Cranach. It's also known for its many Renaissance epitaphs and tombs, including that of the Reformer Johann Bugenhagen, who died here in 1558.

Guided tours of this extensively renovated and extremely well-preserved church are available. Also of interest is the adjoining Chapel of the Holy Body (Kapelle zum Heiligen Leichnam), constructed in 1377 in brick-built Gothic style and notable for its strikingly slender tower.

Address: Kirchplatz 20, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Created as part of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation Martin Luther so famously sparked, Luther 1517 provides a fascinating and extremely realistic portrait of the times. What you'll experience is in fact a single huge painting, or cyclorama, a once common form of entertainment in the 19th century.

This remarkable artwork stretches completely around a rotunda's curved interior wall, presenting an incredible panoramic view of Wittenberg just as it would have appeared the day Luther nailed his famous thesis to a church door. In addition to incredibly detailed depictions of the town's most recognizable buildings, you'll also see the key characters involved in the drama, including Luther and fellow Reformers Philipp Melanchthon and Justus Jonas.

It's an extraordinary artwork, and one you'll want to linger in front of just to catch the many remarkable details that so vividly portray this important historical event.

Address: Lutherstraße 42, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: www.wittenberg360.de/en/

Not far from Lutherhaus is Melanchthonhaus (Melanchthon House), the former home of Luther's friend and fellow Reformer, Philip Melanchthon. Built in 1536, this three-story building with its Late Gothic windows and Renaissance gables was Melanchthon's home and workplace until he died in 1560.

Now an important memorial museum, a highlight of a visit is the chance to view its lovely 16th-century garden with its pump, stone table, herb garden, and old yew trees, all surrounded by a stretch of the old town walls. Other highlights include documents and artifacts once owned by Melanchthon, as well as a large portrait of him by Lucas Cranach the Younger.

Address: Collegienstrasse 60, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Cranach House (Cranach-Haus) was the home of the famous German artist Lucas Cranach the Elder, who lived in Wittenberg from 1505 to 1547. Court painter to the Elector of Saxony, he also became burgomaster of Wittenberg and owner of a pharmacy in the town. Widely considered one of the most accomplished 16th-century artists, he was responsible for painting portraits of many figures connected to the Reformation, as well as local aristocrats.

Now a museum, this finely preserved medieval house and its studio boast numerous artifacts relating to Cranach's career. The courtyards around the home are also worth exploring and include quaint shops and a café. Budding artists are also encouraged to enquire about the museum's regular painting classes (including fun workshops for kids).

Address: Schlossstraße 1, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Official site: http://cranach-stiftung.de/en/

Wittenberg is home to a variety of interesting more modern architectural styles, in particular numerous fine examples from the 20th century. One of the highlights of a walking tour of the town's architecture is Piesteritz (Werksiedlung Piesteritz), a residential area constructed in 1916 to house workers from its industrial areas. Seven styles and sizes of homes were built, with those higher up the pecking order getting the larger abodes (though great pains were taken to ensure the quality was equal for all residents).

A small garden plot was also provided, and pleasant tree-lined pathways built to ensure a communal atmosphere. The estate has recently been completely refurbished and makes for an enjoyable stroll around what was one of Europe's most successful housing projects.

Another notable piece of architecture is the brightly colored Dr. Seuss-like Hundertwasserschule , redesigned and renovated by the famous artist from Austria Friedensreich Hundertwasser in 1999. The school has an interesting visitor center with details of the building's history, along with information relating to the artist.

Address: Schillerstraße 22a, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

To the south of the Schlosskirche stands the Schloss , the old Electoral residence dating from 1525. The arsenal of this impressive structure is now home to the Museum of Town History (Museum für Stadtgeschichte).

Highlights of a visit include seeing exhibits detailing the development of the town, as well as historical archives and an impressive collection of natural history and ethnographic artifacts from prehistoric times to the middle ages.

Address: Zeughaus, Arsenalplatz, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Although one of the smallest zoos in Germany, Wittenberg Zoo (Tierpark Wittenberg) is a great place to let the kids blow off some steam. Situated in a pleasant park-like setting, the zoo offers plenty of exotic species to enjoy.

Highlights include an impressive collection of birds, from regional owls to parrots and parakeets from the tropics. In addition to its large collections of monkeys and meerkats, there's also a fun petting zoo where kids are encouraged to interact with a variety of cute domesticated animals (a deer-feeding station is also available).

A recently added aquarium exhibit with a number of large tanks with local and exotic species of fish and reptiles is also worth a visit. The zoo has also made a name for itself as a center to treat injured wildlife before releasing it back into the wild, and kids will enjoy learning how staff nurse their furry friends back to health.

Other fun things for children to do in Wittenberg include visiting the Science Center futurea , which has a number of interesting displays related in particular to the study of chemistry, and the Alaris Butterfly Park , where guests of all ages can enjoy a walk through a magnificent tropical greenhouse that houses some 140 species of these fascinating creatures (an on-site café is also available).

Address: Pfaffengasse 8, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

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Easy Day Trips : A pleasant one-hour drive from Wittenberg and you're in Potsdam , famous as the seat of Prussian royalty for centuries, and home to the elegant imperial palaces and gardens of Sanssouci. Also an hour away, Brandenburg an der Havel is acclaimed not only for its beautiful and historic Old Town (Altstadt), but also its position as the gateway to over 3,500 lakes and more than 6,700 kilometers of waterways all just waiting to be explored. Travel just a tad farther, and you'll find yourself in the country's capital of Berlin , famous for its majestic Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island, one of the most important groupings of cultural attractions in Germany.

Medieval Times : Germany has done a tremendous job of preserving (or in some cases, rebuilding) its vast catalogue of medieval buildings. Some of the best examples can be found in the old Bavarian Imperial City of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (usually just Rothenburg), one of the most beautiful small cities in the country. Located on Germany's famous "Romantic Road" tourist route, Rothenburg is home to everything from medieval old town walls to the fairytale-like Plönlein, or "Little Square."

Highlights of the ancient city of Nuremberg include its majestic Nuremberg Castle, a magnificent medieval structure that can trace its roots all the way back to the early 10th century. Another top place to visit is lovely Lake Constance , an area of outstanding natural beauty dotted with exquisite old towns and countless medieval castles.

Germany's Top Attractions : Germany is home to some of Europe's top attractions, many of which are responsible for drawing huge tourist crowds to the cities or regions in which they're located. In Cologne , visitors flock from far and wide to see Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom), one of the largest churches in Europe and a masterpiece of 13th-century Gothic architecture. Over in the huge historic Port of Hamburg , it's the world's largest model railroad, Miniatur Wunderland, that draws the crowds, while in the beautiful Black Forest region ... well, here it's all about the magnificent countryside and historic communities, like the spa town of Baden-Baden .

More on Germany

• 1.2 By train
• 1.3 By plane
• 2 Get around
• 6.2 Mid-range
• 6.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Camping
• 8.3 Mid-range
• 8.4 Splurge

Wittenberg is a town in Saxony-Anhalt , Germany . The official name is Lutherstadt Wittenberg for its close connection of the town with Martin Luther's Protestant Reformation . It was here that in 1517, according to the legend, Martin Luther posted his famous 95 Theses on the portal of the Schlosskirche . While historians doubt this particular part of the tale, it is certain that Luther disseminated his Theses from Wittenberg. In 2017 the town celebrated the 500th anniversary of the event. Luther Memorials in Wittenberg are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other historical people with a close connection to Wittenberg are Luther's fellow reformer, Philipp Melanchthon, and the painter Lucas Cranach der Ältere.

Wittenberg should not be confused with the much smaller town of Wittenberge in northwestern Brandenburg .

• Tourist Information , Schlossplatz 2 , ☏ +49 3491 - 49 86 10 , fax : +49 3491 - 49 86 11 , [email protected] . M-F 10:00-16:00, Sa 10:00-14:00 .  

Get in [ edit ]

No matter which transport you use, the two closest hubs are Berlin and Leipzig/Halle. If you aren't in the vicinity yet, you will likely pass through one of them.

By car [ edit ]

The A9/E51 motorway passes west of Wittenberg. Use one of the exits Klein Marzehns, Köselitz, or Coswig (Anhalt). The town lies at the crossing of the main roads B2 and B187.

By train [ edit ]

Hourly ICE trains on the Leipzig - Berlin line stop in Wittenberg in both directions. The ride takes 40 minutes from Leipzig Hbf or 45 from Berlin Hbf. As a slower but cheaper option you can also use RE trains, which also run about hourly. The ride takes 1 hr 15 min from Berlin, 1 hr 5 min from Leipzig, or 1 hour from Halle .

By plane [ edit ]

Berlin Airport ( BER  IATA ) and Leipzig/Halle ( LEJ  IATA ) are the closest airports. Of these two, Berlin offers the widest range of international options.

Get around [ edit ]

Most of the Altstadt (Old City) is pedestrian only. All the major historical sites are within easy walking distance.

• Vetter Bus . Operates five bus lines in Wittenberg. ( updated Jul 2023 )

See [ edit ]

• Museum für Stadtgeschichte , Schlossplatz 1d , ☏ +49 3491-43349-20 . Tu–Su 09:00-17:00 . Historical museum of the town.  

• Archeological Exhibition , Alte Canzley, Schlossplatz 3 . Tu–Su 08:00-18:00 .  

Do [ edit ]

• Organ-at-Three , Schlosskirche . May - Oct: Tu at 15:00 . Organ music played on the historic Ladegast Organ of the Schlosskirche. Admission free; donations welcome .  
• Guided tours , Schlossplatz 2 ( starting point: tourist information opposite of Schlosskirche ). Daily 14:00 (duration 2 hours) . May be cancelled if less than 10 participants show up. Adults €8, children €5 .  

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], budget [ edit ].

• Kartoffelhaus Zum Schwarzen Bär , Schloßstraße 2 , ☏ +49 3491 419868 .  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Athos Griechisches Restaurant , Am Alten Bahnhof 1 , ☏ +49 3491 414080 .  
• Il Castello , Schloßstraße 3 , ☏ +49 3491 414547 .  
• 51.8664 12.6441 1 [dead link] Tante Emma's Bier & Café Haus , Markt 9 , ☏ +49 3491 414547 , [email protected] . M 09:00-17:00, Tu-Su 09:00-24:00 .  
• [dead link] Restaurant von Bora , Collegienstraße 54a, 06886 Lutherstadt , ☏ +49 3491 628 6565 . M closed, Tu Su 11:00-18:00, W-Sa 11:00-23:00 . Modern German cuisine with Mediterranean influences ( updated Jan 2020 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• Brauhaus Wittenberg , Markt 6 , ☏ +49 3491 433134 .  

Drink [ edit ]

• Charles Bar , Markt 7, 06886 , ☏ +49 170 5961274 . ( updated Jan 2016 )

Sleep [ edit ]

Camping [ edit ].

• Marina-Camp-Elbe , Brückenkopf 1 , ☏ +49 3491 454-0 .  
• DJH Jugendherberge Lutherstadt Wittenberg , Schlossstraße 14-15 ( Next to Schlosskirche. Take bus 300 or 304 from main station to Schlossplatz ), ☏ +49 3491 - 50 52 05 . Check-in: 15:00 . Youth hostel inside the castle. €18 + €3.50 for bedclothes (in a shared dorm room) .  
• Stadthotel Schwarzer Bär , Schloßstraße 2 , ☏ +49 3491 4204344 , [email protected] .  
• Brauhaus Wittenberg , Wallstraße 7 , ☏ +49 3491 433130 .  
• Luther-Hotel , Neustraße 7-10, 06886 Lutherstadt , ☏ +49 3491 4580 , fax : +49 3491 458100 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 10:00 . 159 guest rooms (141 double rooms, 11 single rooms, 6 family rooms and 1 suite) ( updated Oct 2017 )
• Best Western Stadthotel , Collegienstraße 56/57 , ☏ +49 3491 4250 , [email protected] .  
• Alte Canzley , Schloßplatz 3-5 , ☏ +49 3491 429190 , [email protected] .  

Go next [ edit ]

• Dessau (35 km west), more parks of the "Garden Realm", Bauhaus school of architecture and the model housing estate of Törten, museum of Junkers aircraft factory; 35 minutes by train.
• Torgau (50 km southeast), another place closely linked with Martin Luther and the Reformation; 1 h 10 min by train via Falkenberg.
• Köthen (60 km west), former residence of the petty state of Anhalt-Köthen, where Johann Sebastian Bach worked and Samuel Hahnemann created homeopathy; 1 h 35 min by train via Halle.
• Leipzig (70 km south), 30 minutes by hourly high-speed train.
• Potsdam (70 km) and Berlin (100 km northeast), 40 minutes to Berlin main station by hourly high-speed train.
• Halle (80 km southwest), one hour by local train.
• Eisleben (110 km southwest), the town where Luther was born and died and the other half of the Luther World Heritage Site; no convenient public transport link.

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Lutherstadt Wittenberg

A visit to Wittenberg, Luther ’ s city, framed by the Middle Elbe and the Fl ä ming, means experiencing world history up close.  

To this day, Wittenberg is deeply marked by its most famous inhabitant. Dr. Martin Luther helped the city to world fame by posting his theses in 1517. The Luther House (Lutherhaus), the local castle church (All Saints ’ ) with the famous “ thesis door ” and many other places retain the spirit of that time.

Tourist Information Office in front of the Castle Church Schlossplatz 2 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg Tel. 0049 3491 498610

Tourist Information Office in the Stadthaus Mauerstraße 18 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg Tel. 0049 3491 498671

Online [email protected] www.lutherstadt-wittenberg.de /en

The Luther House in Wittenberg

From the founding of the Leucorea University in 1502 onwards, Wittenberg attracted many theologians, philosophers and artists, among them Martin Luther, Philipp Melanchthon and Lucas Cranach the Elder. The Lutheran Reformation began here, making Wittenberg one of the intellectual and cultural centers of 16th century Europe. The historic city center still breathes the spirit of that time; the museums preserving the heritage of the Reformation are all near to each other, and the genius of that time continues to exist through the university. The Lutherhaus houses the largest collection dedicated to the history of the Reformation worldwide, and in the renovated Melanchthon House, visitors can retrace the everyday life of Melanchthon and his family. The museum section of the new annex details to the work and impact of the humanist. Another major attraction is the castle church (All Saints ’ ), built in 1506. Martin Luther is said to have nailed his 95 theses to its door. The town church (St Mary), where Luther preached, has Lucas Cranach the Elder ’ s Reformation altar, and the Cranach Houses with the associated Cranach Courts also attract visitors from all over the world. A wide variety of top-class ecclesiastical and secular events, such as art exhibitions, music performances, symposia, historical festivals and more, make this a lively place in terms of art, culture and history. The Luther memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg became a part of UNESCO ’ s cultural heritage in December 1996. Wittenberg is only 35 km away from three other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Garden Kingdom Dessau-W ö rlitz, the Bauhaus Dessau, and the Biosphere Reserve Middle Elbe. Clearly, Wittenberg is located in a region full of cultural and natural treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether as part of a bicycle tour on one of Europe ’ s great cycling routes or during a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago or the Lutherweg - come to Wittenberg and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this famous place and the Luther-Bauhaus-Garden Kingdom region.

We are looking forward to your visit!

The » WelterbeCard entitles holders to the following service from the tourist information Wittenberg:

Free audio guide

The audio guide lets you plan your own tour of Wittenberg; available in 5 languages.

Opening hours Tourist Information Lutherstadt Wittenberg (in front of the Castle Church) (Am Schlossplatz 2): April - October daily 09:00 - 17:00

November - March daily 10:00 - 16:00 24 December & 31 December: 10:00 - 12:00 25 & 26 December: closed

Tourist Information, town hall (Mauerstraße 18): daily 10:00 - 15:00 25 & 26 December: closed

Getting there by bike Adventure Route Coal | Steam | Light | Lakes R1 European Cycle Route Elbe Cycle Route Orange Route Black Elster Cycle Route

Getting there by public transport Munich-Berlin, Wittenberg train station

Getting there by car A9 Munich-Berlin - exit Coswig B187

Melanchthon House

Luther ’ s faithful companion Philipp Melanchthon once lived here.

Luther's house

Most in-depth museum of the history of the Reformation

All Saints ’Church (Castle Church)

Luther posted his 95 theses, bound to change the fate of the world, on the door of Wittenberg ’ s Castle Church .

St. Mary’s Town and Parish church

Martin Luther preached in this church.

Museum in the Zeughaus

Permanent exhibition of the municipal collections on more than 700 years of city history on a total of three floors.

Historical City Information „Klosterkirche“

The history of the Ascanians of the Duchy of Saxony-Wittenberg is staged on 1,500 square metres.

Cranach yards

Lucas Cranach the Elder lived in these houses with yards for almost half a century , creat ing paintings that are now in the world ’ s great museums.

Asisi-Panorama LUTHER 1517

" Luther 1517 " m akes the Reformation a sensory experience.

Hundertwasser School

The school, once in need of renovation, was rebuilt according to plans by the Austrian artist Hundertwasser and completed in 1999.

Futurea Science Center

What do hunger, environmental sustainability and dental care have to do with Wittenberg's historic marketplace?

Luther Garden

"Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would perish, I would still plant an apple tree today."

Company town Piesteritz

From 1916 to 1919, the New Building movement of the early 20th century left impressive traces in Piesteritz, which became a part of Wittenberg in 1951.  

Former Bleesern Stud Farm

Bleesern is the former court stud farm of the Electors of Saxony.

Highlights & Recommendations

Pilgrimage to the Apollensberg

Hike to the Apollensberg and enjoy a unique view of Wittenberg and the surrounding area there. Here you will also find an interesting nature trail that will take you back to the foot of the mountain.

Wittenberg night stories

Wittenberg Night Stories Come, listen, marvel!

Two historically dressed city guides will accompany you through the nocturnal alleys of Lutherstadt Wittenberg by torchlight. They will tell you all kinds of interesting and entertaining stories about 16th century Wittenberg.

You will hear stories about the famous personalities of our town and visit the scenes of many a whimsical incident. The handsome men of the Wittenberg town guard will protect you from highwaymen and bag-snatchers.

Before the tour, we will be pleased to welcome you to the restaurant "Die Niederlassung". Here we serve you thematically appropriate cuisine. Alternatively, we also offer a vegetarian meal.

Guided tour excl. meal: 12,- EUR per adult 10,00,- EUR for children 6 to 15 years of age

Guided tour incl. meal: 32 EUR per person 30 EUR per child

Further information

Guided tour without meal Duration: 60 minutes Start: 9.00 p.m. Meeting place: Tourist Information Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Schlossplatz 2

Guided tour with meal Start: 7.00 p.m. Meeting point: Restaurant "Die Niederlassung", Pfaffengasse 28A, 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Alaris Butterfly Park

The vast tropical landscape of the Alaris Butterfly Park (1 ,000 m² ) lets visitors marvel at over 140 species of butterflies of all sizes and colors. With a little luck, you can even witness these beautiful creatures mate and hatch. Besides typical spring insects such as Swallowtail butterflies, you can also see Indian Oakleaves, bright blue Emperors or nimble Owl butterflies hovering through the air. In April, the first Atlas silk moths also hatch. With wingspans of up to 30 cm, they are the giants among the butterflies.

Guided tours of the Alaris Butterfly Park Visitor groups can take guided tour s of the butterfly park by appointment. For school classes, project visits are a possibility this year, ideally complementing biology lessons. Wittenberg Tropical Night Every year, the Alaris Butterfly Park invites you to a magical evening in the illuminated rainforest with entertaining guided tours, including a snack and lots of interesting facts about the most beautiful representatives of the insect family.

www.schmetterlingspark-wittenberg.de

info@ schmetterlingspark-wittenberg.de

Public guided tour of the city

The public guided tour of historic Wittenberg includes a walk t hrough the old town, from the castle church to Luther ’ s house.

Discover the Cranach houses, the market square with its Renaissance-era town hall, and the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Lutherhaus, Melanchthon House, Castle Church and Town Church. We recommend you arrive at the Lutherstadt Wittenberg Tourist Information (Schlossplatz 2) 10-15 minutes before the tour in order to purchase a ticket. From November-March, public tours require a minimum of 5 or more full-paying guests for tours of 1 . 5 hours and 10 or more full-paying guests for tours of 2 hours, including entrances into interior places (not available on Mondays). During this period, we recommend advance bookings.

November-March Adults: € 9 Reduced: € 6 April-October Adults: € 9 Reduced: € 6 (2 hours incl. admission to the Lutherhaus or to the Melanchthon House) Adults: € 6 Reduced: € 4 (1. 5 hours, outdoor tour) Discounts available for: Children 6-15 years; severely disabled persons Children under 6 years are free

Stop & stay overnight

Best Western soibelmanns Hotel

The 4-star hotel is located in the heart of Wittenberg's old town, right next to the famous Luther House and the old Leucorea University.

martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg (former Luther-Hotel Wittenberg)

The personally managed 3-star superior hotel welcomes you with 159 modernly furnished guest rooms as well as eight meeting rooms.

von Bora-Restaurant by martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg

In the historic walls of the Lutherhaus, Christian Hirsch's team serves modern German dishes with Mediterranean influences.

Youth Hostel Wittenberg

The modern youth hostel is part of the Wittenberg castle complex and was reopened in 2007 after a complete renovation.

Cranach-Herberge

Schlossstraße 1 06886 Lutherstadt Wittenberg Germany

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Kirchenführungen und Asisi Panorama Führungen

Wittenberg Tourismus – Wenn jede Stadtführung zum Erlebnis und jede Tour besonders wird

Stadtführung Wittenberg. das bedeutet Thesen, Reformation, Weltkultur, Welterbe, Luther, Melanchthon, Cranach, einzigartige Renaissance Architektur, verträumte Flussauen, wunderbare Naturlandschaften, Aufklärung, Bauhaus Moderne um nur einige Gründe zu nennen, warum Wittenberg und seine Umgebung zu den Regionen Mitteleuropas gehört, die immer wieder einen Besuch wert sind. Wir von Wittenberg Tourismus heißen Sie nicht nur  von ganzem Herzen in Wittenberg, Wörlitz , Dessau, Torgau , den Fläming , die Elbe und den Naturpark Dübener Heide willkommen. Wir sind Ihr Partner , um in unsere faszinierende Region ganz nach Ihren Vorlieben einzutauchen. Wir bringen Sie einfach näher und intensiver an die Erlebnisse heran, die Sie wirklich begeistern. Bei uns dreht sich alles um Sie, Ihre Wünsche und Vorstellungen . Ihr Glück in unserer Stadt ist unsere Passion, damit Sie mit wunderbaren Erinnerungen im Gepäck, Abschied nehmen aber wieder kommen . . . Das beginnt mit der ersten Stadtführung in Wittenberg. Schon in unserer 90 Minuten Kurzführung stellen wir Ihnen Wittenberg mit ebenso viel  Herzblut vor wie auf einer umfangreichen Insider Stadtführung in Wittenberg durch das historische Erbe und die Welterbestätten. Wir zeigen Ihnen nicht nur immer das Gewisse „Etwas“ mehr, sondern bringen Sie hinter die Kulissen  von Wittenberg, weil Sie mit Wittenberg Tourismus eben immer näher dran sind. Bei uns haben Sie die Wahl aus einer riesigen Vielfalt an Stadtführungen in Wittenberg und Touren in die Umgebung. Entweder finden Sie eine Stadtführung in Wittenberg aus unserem Programm oder wir gestalten Ihnen eine Einzel Stadtführung, ein Tages – oder Mehrtagesprogramm mit Stadtführungen in Wittenberg oder Radtouren, Aktivprogramme auf der Elbe, Konzerte oder Lesungen , egal ob speziell für Sie und Ihre Begleitung, für Ihr Firmenevent oder Ihren Verein . . . Mit Wittenberg Tourismus sind Sie bereits mit der ersten Stadtführung in Wittenberg viel besser dran!

Sehenswürdig­keiten

Weil nicht nur die Lutherstadt Wittenberg faszinierende Sehenswürdigkeiten und UNESCO welterbestätten zu bieten hat, sondern auch im Gartenreich Dessau Wörlitz, in Torgau und der Bauhausstadt Dessau bezaubernde Facetten zu entdecken sind, bieten wir Ihnen hier eine einzigartige Übersicht über die Sehenswürdigkeiten der Region. Denn uns von Wittenberg Tourismus ist es nicht nur wichtig, dass Sie besser über Wittenberg und seine Umgebung informiert sind, sondern dass Sie immer Ansprechpartner vor Ort haben, die Ihnen das Beste aus 700 Jahren Deutscher Geschichte auch perfekt zeigen.

Historische Stadtführungen

Stadtführungen durch die historische Altstadt von Wittenberg sind voll von unvergesslichen Eindrücken. Aber eine Stadtführung durch die Jahrhunderte deutscher Reformations- und Kulturgeschichte durch verträumte Höfe, die unendlich viele Geschichten zu erzählen haben, werden noch authentischer, wenn unser Gästeführer Sie nicht nur die Magie dieser Orte spüren lässt, sondern die Historie auch optisch verkörpert. Denn besondere Orte verdienen besondere Atmosphäre. Im traditionellen Gewand als historische Persönlichkeit führen wir Sie durch Wittenberg. Die passende Führung finden Sie hier.

Historische Führungen

Wer sich von uns als historische Persönlichkeiten im Gewand durch Wittenberg führen lassen möchte, der findet hier die passende Führung.

Gutschein verschenken

Verschenken Sie beim nächsten Mal doch einfach unvergessliche Momente, echte Abwechslung und ganz viel Individualität. Denn mit einem Gutschein für eine individuelle Stadtführung in Wittenberg, eine Kirchenführung in der Schlosskirche oder der Stadtkirche können Sie  Freunde, die Familie und Menschen, die Ihnen wichtig sind, nicht nur überraschen, sondern gemeinsam wertvolle Zeit verbringen. Und wenn Ihr Gutschein noch ausgfellaner werden soll, dann verschenken Sie doch einfach eine echte Zeitreise  – eine Führung im Asisi Panorama „Luther 1517“ oder einen Spaziergang durch den perfekten Ort der Aufklärung – den Park von Wörlitz.

Und Sie bestimmen ganz allein, wie gross und individuell Ihr Geschnek werden soll. Ein Wittenberg Tourismus Gutschein ist imemr die perfekte Wahl.

Unsere besonderen Touren in Wörlitz....

Wir von von Wittenberg Tourismus führen Sie nicht nur durch Wittenberg, sondern sind auch Ihre Experten für die besonderen Orte im Welterbedreieck zwischen Wittenberg – Dessau – Torgau.

Einer dieser Orte ist das Abbild des romantischen Abbildes eines perfekten Parks nach dem besten Vorbildern der Aufklärung – der Park von Wörlitz. Hier bringen wir Sie nicht nur zum Staunen, sondern laden auf ganz besonders unterhaltsame und entspannte Touren in das Wörlitzer Gartenreich ein, um in die neue Garten- und Baukunst von Fürst Leopold Friedrich Franz  und seinem Freund und Berater Friedrich Wilhelm von Erdmannsdorff einzutauchen. Egal ob zu Fuss, mit dem Rad oder per Boot, ob mit einem fürstlichen Kaffeegedeck oder ganz naturnah. Hier können Sie selbst zu neuen Horizonten aufbrechen und erfahren in einem Atemzug mehr über die vielfältigen Sichtachsen im Park und über den Fürsten Franz von Anhalt Dessau.

individuelle führung durch die Wörlitzer Parkanlagen

Ein Spaziergang durch das Gartenreich Dessau Wörlitz.

Entdecken Sie mit uns auf einer ganz individuell geplanten Führung die Parkanlagen von Wörlitz.

Tagestour mit dem Rad von Wittenberg nach Wörlitz

Wörlitz mal ganz intensiv auf einer geführten Radtour mit individuell geführtem Spaziergang durch die Wörlitzer Parkanlagen  erleben.

Wir radeln mit Ihnen von Wittenberg nach Wörlitz und zurück.

Gondelfahrt mit Kaffee und Besichtigung Schloss

Auf dem Wasser entspannt bei Kaffee und Kuchen den Geschichten über Wörlitz lausche. Danach bestaunen wir bei einer Führung das neu restaurierten Schloss in Wörlitz.

Führungen im Asisi Panorama

Das Panorama von Yadegar Asisi in wittenberg „Luther 1517“ erlebt man besonders bei einer individuellen und persönlichen Führung

Panorama und Stadtführung

Erleben Sie in einer perfekten Kombination von einer individuellen Panorama – und Stadtführung Wittenberg zu Luthers Zeiten und Heute.

Das Asisi Panorama "Luther 1517"

Der Künstler Yadegar Asisi schuf in Wittenberg mit seinem Panorama „Luther 1517“ ein beindruckendes Kunstwerk.

Die besten Tipps für Besucher in der Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Essen und trinken.

Text, Text, Text

Übernachten in der Stadt

Kultur & Shopping Perlen

Die beliebtesten Stadtführungen von Wittenberg Tourismus

Die stadtkirche st. marien und wittenberg.

Sie erleben auf unserer 2 stündigen Tour die Lutherstadt Wittenberg auf ganz individuelle Art. Gemeinsam spazieren wir mit Ihnen durch die historische Altstadt. Der besondere Höhepunkt ist die Stadtkirche St. Marien mit einer ausführlichen und individuellen Innenführung durch die Mutterkirche der Reformation.  Ihr Wittenberg Tourismus Experte ist die gesamte Tour für Sie da.

Die Schlosskirche und Wittenberg

Erleben Sie auf unserer 2 stündigen Tour die Lutherstadt Wittenberg auf ganz individuelle Art. Wir spazieren mit Ihnen von der Schlosskirche bis zum Lutherhaus und erleben das Wichtigste der historischen Altstadt von Wittenberg. Als Besonderheit ist hier unsere umfangreiche Führung im Inneren der Schlosskirche bereits inklusive. Ihr Wittenberg Tourismus Experte ist die gesamte Tour für Sie da.

Das Asisi Panorama "Luther 1517" und Wittenberg

Erleben Sie auf unserer gut einstündigen individuellen Tour das Asisi Panorama „Luther 1517“ in der Lutherstadt Wittenberg auf besondere Art. Ihr Wittenberg Tourismus Experte zeigt Ihnen viele Details auf dem einzigartigen Kunstwerk.

Über Wittenberg Tourismus

Mit Kopf, Hand und Herz im Dienste der Besucher und Besucherinnen von Wittenberg und Umgebung – erfahren Sie mehr über uns, unsere Idee, Wittenberg und seine faszinierende Umgebung für alle so erlebbar zu machen, dass man das nächste Mal mit seinen besten Freunden zu uns kommt. Entscheiden Sie, ob Sie nur hier in Wittenberg gewesen sein wollen oder mit unvergesslichen Tage(en) und wunderbaren Erinnerungen im Gepäck heimkommen möchten.

Gestatten – Das Team von Wittenberg Tourismus. Wir sind nicht nur ein starkes Team, bei uns sind alle mit dem Herzblut dabei und Sie finden Ihren Spezialisten für genau Ihre Wünsche . . .

was können wir

Wittenberg Tourismus ist mehr als Stadtführung. Wir zeigen Ihnen unsere Kultur- und Naturregion ganz so, wie Sie es mögen. Wir sind Menschen von hier zeigen Ihnen mehr und haben die schönen Geschichten . . .

unsere Philosophie

Wittenberg Tourismus ist anders. Bei uns bilden Kopf, Herz und Hand eine Einheit mit dem Ziel, Sie zu begeistern und Sie unvergessliche Momente erleben zu lassen . . .

Schreiben sie uns: [email protected]

Was wittenberg-tourismus anders macht.

Stadtführung, Erlebnisführung, Kirchenführung, Museumsführung, Kunstführung, Kindertour, Seniorentour, Aktivtour, Schlössertour, Wandertour, Paddeltour, Kanutour, Tagestour, Workshop, Tagung, Seminar, Hochzeit, Chortreffen, Klassentreffen, Jubiläum, Radtour, Kochkurs, Lernkurs, Malkurs . . . . Die Welterberegion Anhalt mit Wittenberg, Dessau, Wörlitz & Ferropolis ist nicht nur Deutschlands Region mit der dichtesten Konzentration an Welterbstätten un Deutschland, sie bietet für unglaublich viele Interessen und Reisevorlieben das perfekte Erlebnis für Gross & Klein, für Individualisten und Gruppen, für Singles, Paare und Familien.

Egal, ob Kunst & Kultur, Natur & Bewegung, Bildung & Hobby oder Feiern & Genuss für Sie die Gründe sind, warum Sie auf Reisen gehen.

Wir von Wittenberg-Tourismus finden gemeinsem mit Ihnen aus der Vielzahl an Möglichkeiten die Stadtführung, die zu Ihnen passt, das Programm, das Ihre Wünsche erfüllt, den Ort, den Sie suchen. Und dabei spielt es kein Rolle, ob Sie nur wenige Stunden oder eine ganze Woche in der Welterberegion bleiben.

Und dabei kennen wir nicht nur die Menschen, Gästeführer, Gastronomen, Künstler und natürlich *innen, sondern sie kommen aus unseren eigenen Reihen. Wir wissen nicht nur, wer und was das Beste für Sie ist, wir sind die Menschen, die in Wittenberg, Torgau, Dessau, Wörlitz und Ferropolis, in der Dübener Heide und im Fläming für sie da sind. Mit uns sind Sie mittendrin und wir haben das Können und das Herzblut, damit Ihre Zeit hier bei uns unvergesslich wird.

Privacy Overview

Visit Wittenberg

Visit Wittenberg – Your Wittenberg Travel Guide

Famous for Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation, tiny Wittenberg is a handsome, cobblestone town with a huge history. VisitWittenberg will help you to get the very best from your trip to this momentous destination.

Not many towns can claim to have changed the course of history, but Martin Luther’s 95 Theses of 1517 are widely taken as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, with seismic repercussions for Europe and Christianity. The town’s full name is Lutherstadt Wittenberg, in honour of the theologian’s influence.

Today Wittenberg has four UNESCO world heritage sites, mainly connected to Luther, and the town is an attractive mix of medieval and Renaissance buildings, cobbled pavements, and pretty little streams running alongside the streets. In 2017, the town celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Reformation and there was a large renovation of the key attractions over the preceding decade, so it is currently in peak condition.

Wittenberg is small and you can see most of the highlights in a day. It makes a great day trip from Berlin or Leipzig. But you may also decide to stay overnight, so you can take advantage of a local restaurant and get to see everything properly.

What Should I See In Wittenberg? What Are Wittenberg’s Must-See Attractions?

Most of Wittenberg’s star attractions are based around Martin Luther and his fellow reformers, but there are a few surprises. And, really, the town is just a nice place for a cold beer on a sunny afternoon. It has a laid-back feeling. There’s an outdoor market.

It’s possible to see the highlights within a day but we recommend two if you want to give the Lutherhaus museum its due, and to explore the little courtyards and hidden gardens off the main road.

Here are some of the key central attractions for a first-time visit to Wittenberg:

• One of the doors to the Schlosskirche (All Saints’ Church) is where Martin Luther is reputed to have nailed his 95 Theses on 31 October 1517. The original door was destroyed in the 18th century and replaced with the massive bronze version you can see today, and the entire church itself was recently restored to its current splendour. Luther himself is buried here.
• The twin towers of St Mary’s (Stadtkirche Wittenberg), the oldest building the Wittenberg, mark out this landmark building where Luther himself used to preach. For many, this is the mother-church of the Reformation, and it is now a UNESCO world heritage site.
• The Renaissance Melanchthon House is a beautiful UNESCO-status museum dedicated to Luther’s fellow reformer Philipp Melanchthon. This offers an insight into Reformation-era life in Wittenberg. There is also a pretty herb garden behind the building.
• The final of four UNESCO sites in Wittenberg is The Luther House, where Martin Luther and his wife Katharina von Bora lived. This is now the world’s largest museum of the history of the Reformation.
• Luther 1517 – Wittenberg 360° is Yadegar Asisi’s huge 50×250-ft panoramic cinematic recreation of 16th-century Wittenberg, and an entertaining introduction on the subject.
• Tucked off the main drag is the courtyard and house where painter Lucas Cranach the Elder lived and worked. There’s a charmingly wobbly façade and exhibition, and a friendly restaurant opposite with outside tables, where you can get a good look at the buildings while you have a beer.
• Perhaps the most surprising building in Wittenberg is the Hundertwasserschule. All the trademarks of the infamous Austrian artist and architect are present, with the bright colours and free-flowing forms. A big smile of a building.
• Another surprising exhibition is the House of Everyday History which brings a big dose of GDR-era nostalgia. The museum recreates 20th century interiors and includes guest appearances from the East German children’s favourite Unser Sandmännchen .
• Wittenberg is a 30-minute train journey from Leipzig. Home of Bach and other German musical giants, and home to Auerbachs Keller, where Mephistopheles takes Faust. Get Your Guide offers a big rang of Leipzig tours and activities.
• Wittenberg is also a speedy 45 minute’s away from Berlin on the train, where you can take part in practically endless tours and activities. See Get Your Guide for recommendations.

Where Should I Stay In Wittenberg?

As always, the cost of hotels always depends on location, budget, and time of year. Expect to pay 100€ as a baseline for a 3-star hotel. You can expect to pay around 140€ for the upper bracket and around 80€ for somewhere cheaper.

Use Booking.com to get a detailed breakdown of each property and genuine guest reviews. You can reserve online with no upfront fee and pay when you check out. Free cancellations are also available.

Check Wittenberg Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Here is our selection to get your started:

• Best Wittenberg Luxury Hotel: Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Wittenberg Rental Apartment: Designapartment
• Best Wittenberg Family Accommodation: Design & Chill #Altstadt #Beamer
• Best Wittenberg Mid-Range Hotel: Altstadt Gästehaus
• Best Wittenberg Business Hotel: Martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Wittenberg Budget Hotel: Hotel Luther Birke Wittenberg

How To Get To Wittenberg

Wittenberg does not have an airport, so you would most likely catch the 40-minute high-speed ICE train from Berlin. Unfortunately, you will need to travel into central Berlin first if you fly into Berlin Brandenburg Airport, adding an extra 35 minutes to the journey. This international airport is well served by budget airlines, with daily flights from all over Europe.

There is also Leipzig-Halle Airport, which is about 105 minute’s away from Wittenberg by train (in total). Again, this requires you to travel into Leipzig itself and change. Leipzig-Halle offers a ragbag of routes, including London Stansted with Ryanair. You can see arrivals and departures on the airport’s website .

Once you arrive at Lutherstadt Wittenberg train station, there is a short walk to the town itself. It is well signposted.

You can find cheap flights to Wittenberg with 12go . A single search will show you all available prices and times for your dates. Change the search options as required.

How To Get A SIM Card In Wittenberg

You should automatically be able to use your existing phone plan in Germany, if you have a contract registered in any EU country, at no extra charge – but check with your provider before you travel.

If your contract is UK-based, you should still be able to use your existing plan in Germany, but there will most likely be an extra usage fee. Again, check with your provider for the latest prices before you travel.

If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you have a number of possible options. If you have already bought a SIM in another EU country, this should also work in Germany. Otherwise, you could buy an eSIM online or a pre-paid SIM via Amazon before you arrive. But, as you cannot test these in advance, you may end up wasting your money.

Instead, we recommend you get a German SIM card directly from a branch of Constar, O2, Telekom, or Vodafone. They can talk you through the best deals and make sure everything is working properly. Many young Germans speak excellent English, so you should be able to find someone who can help you.

It means you will have to travel town centre without a connection, but you are bound to save money if you do.

You’ll need your passport to buy a SIM. Also, make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel.

There is a Vodafone shop at Collegienstraße 82 in Wittenberg, and the Arsenal shopping centre includes a Telekom store and a generic mobile vendor selling Congstar, O2, and Vodafone contracts, so you can compare deals. See the map below.

Travel Insurance For Wittenberg

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Other German Cities You Can Visit From Wittenberg

Wittenberg lies almost equidistant between Berlin and Leipzig, which themselves make a great base for day trips to Potsdam and Dresden respectively. This makes it handy to chain these different destinations and spend a couple of days in each.

Check prices and timetables for buses and planes with 12go and book instantly online. Trains can be booked via the Deutsche Bahn website .

• Berlin : If you’re staying in Germany’s vibrant capital, Wittenberg makes an excellent day trip, especially as it is less than an hour away by high-speed train. But the opposite is also true – Wittenberg can be a relaxing hub from which to visit Berlin and Leipzig.
• Dresden : You can also reach stately Dresden within a couple of hours from Wittenberg, via Leipzig. A miracle of reconstruction, the city oozes grandeur.
• Dessau : A mere 30 minutes from Wittenberg, Dessau is a small cultural town, perhaps most famous for the handful of Bauhaus buildings that remain there.
• Leipzig : A mere 30 minutes from Wittenberg, Leipzig has been hyped as “the new Berlin” for well over a decade. Once you get to know the city, it is easy to see why. Post-industrial and creative, it retains a thrilling sense of possibility.
• Potsdam : It is necessary to travel via Berlin to reach Potsdam, but the entire trip can be done in less than 90 minutes and the rewards are considerable. The town itself is very pretty but the major attraction is the palace of Sanssouci, the summer palace of Frederick the Great.

Wittenberg Map

Plan your Wittenberg visit with Wittenberg map of Wittenberg’s attractions, restaurants, sightseeing and hotels.

Each type of landmark has a different colour marker on the map:

• YELLOW: Wittenberg Sightseeing
• GREEN: Wittenberg Transportation
• BLUE: Wittenberg Hotels
• PURPLE: Shopping In Wittenberg

Click on a marker and it will give you the name of the landmark, with a brief description and links for more information and directions. You can pan, scroll, and zoom around the map, or use the + or – buttons in the bottom left of the map to zoom in and out.

Click on the icon in the top left corner for an index of every location, sorted by category. Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want. Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.

Each category is on a different layer, which can be switched on and off. So you can just see the Hotel or Restaurant pins, for example.

If you are using the map on your phone, open the Visit Wittenberg map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Start Planning Your Wittenberg Trip Now!

:: Find available Wittenberg hotels on Booking.com – you can usually reserve with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and, if necessary, cancel for free.

:: Find flights to Berlin Brandenburg Airport with 12go – a single search shows times and prices from all available airlines for your trip, saving you time and money.

:: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

About the author:

After 4-1/2 years of covering European travel topics for About.com, Durant and Cheryl Imboden co-founded Europe for Visitors (now including Germany for Visitors) in 2001. The site has earned "Best of the Web" honors from Forbes and The Washington Post .

For more information, see About Europe for Visitors , press clippings , and reader testimonials .

1st inset photo: 1879 woodcut after Lucas Cranach. 2nd inset photo: Klizsch/TourismusRegion Wittenberg. 3rd, 11th inset photos: TourismusRegion Wittenberg.

Tourist-Information Lutherstadt Wittenberg

Top ways to experience Tourist-Information Lutherstadt Wittenberg and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Tourist-Information Lutherstadt Wittenberg - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

S T A Y A T T H E B E S T W E S T E R N

The Best Western soibelmanns Hotel is located in the middle of the historic Old Town, directly “wall-to-wall” with the famous Luther House and only 5 minutes walk from the Yadegar Asisi 360° Panorama. All sights, castle church, city church, Melanchthonhaus etc. are within a few minutes walking distance. The ICE train station is 700 m away. A9 (Berlin-Nuremberg), exit Coswig (15 km). The homey interior is characterized by the high-quality, loving design of the materials of the Reformation period.

A fantastically beautiful ambience in all 80 hotel rooms (partly air-conditioned), the lobby and the cozy restaurant, invite you to the Lutherstadt. The large fireplace with its comfortable armchairs entices you to relax, as do the amenities in the sauna area. On warm days, the terrace in the leafy courtyard is a suitable place for small and large treats between Luther’s herb garden and the Luther House.

M o r e t i p s

Lutherstadt Wittenberg For more information on tourist attractions in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, such as accommodation, restaurants, sightseeing, tickets, souvenirs, as well as individual tour planning, please contact the Lutherstadt Wittenberg Tourist Information Office: lutherstadt-wittenberg.de .

Lutherhaus and Melanchthonhaus With your ticket from the Luther House or from the Melanchthon House you will receive a EUR 2,- discount. This applies to full-paying and reduced tickets. Tickets at: www.martinluther.de

T i c k e t s a n d P r i c e s

We are looking forward to welcome you at the Panorama LUTHER 1517 in Wittenberg. You can buy your ticket always on-site. Here you can purchase your ticket in advance. All individual tickets come along with an acoustic guide.

• Harz Mountains
• Quedlinburg
• Wernigerode
• Harz Fairy Tales
• Berchtesgaden Area
• Berchtesgaden Town
• Eagle's Nest
• Hitler's Berghof
• Obersalzberg
• Braunau am Inn
• Wartburg Castle
• Martin Luther
• Hogan's Heroes
• Colditz Castle
• Flights to Germany

Updated August 25, 2023.

Martin Luther and the 95 Theses

This sleepy little town in rural eastern Germany doesn't look like the center of a revolution. But the events that played out here in the 16th Century shook the foundations of Christendom.

• What to see
• Getting there

It was here in Wittenberg, Germany, that Martin Luther lived and preached, and on October 31, 1517, he nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church. The Protestant Reformation had begun.

Visitors come here from all over the world to see the places where these historic events took place. This could be a good day trip from Berlin; it's about one hour on the IC train. But to see everything without having to rush, I would recommend spending at least one night here.

What to See in Wittenberg

For such a small town, there is a lot to see:

• The town itself. A charming collection of 16th Century houses and a striking market square.
• The Castle Church . It was on the doors of this impressive church that (allegedly) Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses. Luther's grave is inside.
• The Town Church . Another beautiful Medieval church where Luther preached many sermons.
• Luther's Residence . Martin Luther lived in this converted cloister with his family for many years. Now a museum.
• The Oak Tree  planted where Luther burned the Papal Bull.
• Lucas Cranach's Home  and art studio. This artist documented much of the Reformation with his portraits and woodcuts.

Other things to see:

• The Castle Museum , in the castle part of the Castle Church building. History of Wittenberg, from prehistoric times through the middle ages and later as a Prussian garrison town.
• Philip Melanchthon's House , on Collegienstrasse. Luther's friend and fellow theologian, who contributed enormously to Lutheran doctrine.
• An East German nostalgia museum,  Haus der Geschichte , on Schlossstrasse. Rooms furnished in '50s, '60s and '70s DDR style.
• An interesting second-hand shop on Mittelstrasse, crammed with German Army items, WWI to the present.

The town's official name is Lutherstadt-Wittenberg , and this is definitely Martin Luther Central! Everywhere you turn, there's a spot associated with Martin Luther's life.

The shops carry everything you could imagine associated with their most famous resident: books, posters, mugs, statues...even Martin Luther socks! In spite of that, it's really a pleasant little town and crammed with interesting history.

Martin Luther socks.  People have been asking about the  Martin Luther socks  with "Here I stand" on them. You can find them online from these companies:

English version:

• Concordia Publishing
• Old Lutheran

German version (Hier stehe ich):

• Luthersocke

I haven't heard any feedback about these yet.

The Town of Wittenberg

Wittenberg is designed for easy walking. The old town is long and narrow, and flat, laid out along two parallel streets: pedestrian-only  Collegienstrasse  (which turns into Schlossstrasse), and  Mittelstrasse .

Most of the historical sights are along Collegienstrasse and Schlossstrasse.

A stream runs along the main street, partially underground. Half way along, the street opens out into an attractive square, or Markt, with a statues of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon.

Pretty pastel-colored buildings, many from the 16th and 17th centuries, line the streets and there are a number of inviting restaurants serving hearty German cooking. During warmer weather, many of the restaurants have tables on the sidewalk, great for relaxing and people-watching.

The  Tourist Information Office  is located at the western end of Schlossstrasse across the street from the Castle Church. You can get maps of the town, as well as information on all the local activities.

This is a good pace to book a hotel if you don't have reservations. Open daily (except in winter). They also have a smaller office in front of the train station with more limited hours (closed Saturday afternoons and Sundays). www.wittenberg-information.de.

Castle Church

This is the famous church where Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door. Luther gave some of his sermons in this church and now is buried just under the pulpit.

The church was severely damaged twice during wars in the centuries following the Reformation, but it was rebuilt each time.

The doors you see now were put up in the 19th century (the original wooden doors are long gone, with the Middle Ages). The current doors are made of bronze and are engraved with all ninety-five theses.

I t is called the Castle Church because it is part of a church-castle complex.

The castle tower rises high above Wittenberg and you can climb the winding stone stairs for a great view of the town. Open daily from noon to 4:00. On the Schlossplatz, at the end of Schlossstrasse.

Something cool : English services will be conducted at either the Castle Church or the Town Church, Wednesday through Saturday. 

You will be able to sing Luther's most famous hymn,  A Mighty Fortress is Our God  in English, in the church where he sang it. The hymn is sung at every English-language service. Check for scheduling on the website:  www.wittenberg-english-ministry.com .

Enjoy a beautiful version of A Mighty Fortress...

Town Church

This is a lovely old church (the Stadtkirche), very large, with its double towers reaching high above the town. It is just behind the Markt on Kirchplatz.

Martin Luther preached many sermons in this church, and he and Katharina von Bora were married here. Their marriage is re-enacted annually in a popular festival. All of his children were baptized in the church.

A large painting by Lucas Cranach the Elder is above the altar showing Luther receiving the cup at the Last Supper.

Martin Luther's Residence

One of the first buildings on the left on Collegienstrasse as you enter the old town is the large cloister that Martin Luther used as a home.

The Luther family, wife and six children, and various students and visitors lived in the central part of the building. He was given the building by one of the aristocrats supporting his movement.

The building is now a museum, open daily, and maintains Luther's living rooms in their original state. This is where Luther sat with his family and friends in the evenings, discussing a wide range of subjects from the sublime to the earthy (yes, earthy, not earthly!)

Martin Luther was known for his rather blunt way of speaking as well as for his eloquence. Students were allowed to be present during these evening discussions; they took notes and later published thousands of his comments in a book called  "Table Talk" . To read a sampling of his sayings, see  Martin Luther Quotes .

Inside the museum are some interesting artifacts from that period, including one of the chests used for collecting money for indulgences, an "indulgence" letter itself, and the pulpit that Martin Luther used for preaching.

Lucas Cranach 's fascinating painting of the  Ten Commandments  is located on wood panels in the refectory of Martin Luther's home. The Wicked Deeds are presented quasi-cartoon style for the faithful to ponder.

Lucas Cranach's House

Lucas Cranach the Elder painted many of the well-known figures of the Reformation, as well as the local princes and princesses, and his paintings, drawings and woodcuts are in museums all over Europe.

His house on Collegienstrasse is now a museum and his artist studio behind the house has some interesting exhibits.

Cranach was not only one of the most accomplished and prolific painters of the 16th century, he was also the mayor of Wittenberg and owned a pharmacists shop that is still doing business as a pharmacy (or Apotheke) in Wittenberg!

Luther's Oak

In 1520, Martin Luther's supporters piled up a stack of writings of Church doctrine and set them on fire. Luther threw in the Papal Bull, the document threatening him with excommunication unless he recanted his writings.

In 1830, an oak tree was planted on the spot where all this allegedly took place. The tree is at the corner of Am Hauptbahnhofstrasse and Collegienstrasse on the way in from the train station, just before you enter the old town.

Wittenberg Tours

English tours : the Tourist Office can arrange English tours for groups, but the regular daily tours are in German. They do have do-it-yourself audio tours in English for rent. In addition, they have a "cell phone tour", where you call a certain number and extension at each sight, and hear information about it in English, for only a connection fee. More info on English tours .

New tour for 2024:   Luther, Castles & Oktoberfest Tour. This is a comprehensive, 11 day tour of Luther's places (Wittenberg, Eisleben, Wartburg Caste, and Erfurt), combined with a Rhine River Cruise, visits to Rothenburg, Neuschwanstein, Munich and Oktoberfest.

Given by the director of the Wittenberg English Ministry. September 15-25, 2024. 

See Luther, Castles & Oktoberfest Tour for details and booking.

Wittenberg Festivals

Medieval faires.

Twice a year the town of Wittenberg turns into a medieval village, with music, costumes, hearty peasant fare, plenty of wine and beer, and medieval dancing, juggling and processions.

• Luthers Hochzeit, or  Luther's Wedding , is a celebration based on the wedding of Luther and Katharina von Bora which takes place in June each year.
• The  Reformations Fest  is another Medieval Faire, with additional classical concerts, plays, seminars and special church services. This takes place for several days around October 31 every year (the date the 95 Theses were nailed up).

There is also an annual Pottery Fair in September, where local potters display their wares in the main square.

Wittenberg University

There has been a university here since Martin Luther's time, located on Collegienstrasse. Parts of the structure date back to that period, and Luther himself worked within these walls. Quotations of his are displayed on the walls in the entrance hall.

Travel Tips

Hotels in wittenberg.

Note: I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through some of the links on this page, at no extra cost to you. This helps me provide all the free information I post on this website. Thank you for your support!

There are several charming, older hotels in the heart of the old town, conveniently located and loaded with ambiance:

• Hotel Brauhaus Wittenberg , located on the Markt, is an actual brewery, as well as a hotel and a beer garden. They say Martin Luther himself was a regular in their tavern, the Goldener Adler. www.brauhaus-wittenberg.de  More info and booking .
• Schwarzer Baer , at Schlossstrasse 2, www.stadthotel-wittenberg.de.  More info and booking .
• Alte Kanzley, Schlossplatz 3-5. www.alte-canzley.de.  More info and booking .

Travel to Wittenberg

Wittenberg is located on the Elbe River in eastern Germany,  62 miles (100km) southwest of Berlin  and it's about  one hour by train  from both Berlin and Leipzig.

The  train station  is just to the east of the old town, about a ten minute walk. If you come by train, take a left on the street in front of the station (Am Hauptbahnhofstrasse) and follow that until the street ends near a traffic circle. See maps below.

The famous oak tree is to the right of the circle. Turn right and you will be on the main street of the old town, Collegienstrasse. Most of the main sights are on this street. The Castle Church (Schlosskirche) is at the far end, and you will pass Luther's house, the old University, Melanchthon and Cranach's houses and the Markt. The Town Church (Stadtkirche) is on the parallel street, Mittelstrasse. It has enormous towers; you can't miss it.

Map of Wittenberg

Map data (c)  OpenStreetMap  and contributors,  CC-BY-SA

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• The Top Things To See...

The Top Things to See and Do In Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany

The historic town of Wittenberg, Germany, is best known as the birthplace of reformer Martin Luther. Understandably, of the many sites making up the city skyline, several are closely related or dedicated to the legendary son of the soil. Additionally, Wittenberg’s old town oozes historic charm and culture. Let’s find out why this town should be your next stop.

1. lutherhaus museum.

The building that served as the residence of Martin Luther from 1508 till he breathed his last in 1546 is today a museum. Visitors flock to this museum to see where the reformer lived and worked, participated in the famous Table Talks, spoke to the people and ate his meals. The other sections of this building house a wide range of artifacts that tell the story of how he lived his life, including his Bible, paintings, manuscripts, documents and more.

2. Wittenberg Market Square

Wittenberg market square, the beating heart of the city, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. The highlight of this square is the stunning 16th century Rathaus with its four Renaissance gables, Gothic windows and ornate facade. Next to the Rathaus, look out for Market Fountain built in 1617 and statues of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon. This square is a great place to mingle with the locals, grab a meal, shop and people-watch.

3. Castle Church

The Castle Church is unparalleled in historical importance. It is on the door of this church that Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses on 31st October 1517. Though the original door was destroyed, a bronze replacement was installed in 1858. It is also the final resting place of the great reformer as well as fellow reformer Philipp Melanchthon. The church offers guided tours to visitors.

4. Church of St. Mary

The Church of St. Mary, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, is the most ancient building in Wittenberg, and its twin octagonal towers have come to be recognized as an icon of Wittenberg. Martin Luther himself preached in this Gothic town and parish church. On a tour through the church, you can see priceless paintings by Cranach, a wide collection of modern art, a stunning organ, Renaissance epitaphs and tombs. The church also offers guided tours.

5. Melanchthon House

Melanchton House is a celebration of the life and work of famous humanist and reformer , Philipp Melanchthon. This 16th century house is where he lived with his family, worked and hosted poetry contests, until he passed away. The building’s architecture is eye-catching thanks to its Late Gothic windows and Renaissance gables. The museum houses documents and artifacts owned by or related to the reformer. Highlights include a massive, restored portrait of Philipp Melanchthon by Lucas Cranach the Younger and an original salary receipt drawn out to Melanchthon for his work as a professor. The museums offers interesting games and expeditions designed for children.

6. Hundertwasserschule

The Luther-Melanchthons-Gymnasium school, designed by famous architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, is a splendid building. The school offers group and individual tours, in the course of which you can see special elements of the unique architecture as well as learn everything you want to know about the school. You can also pick up a souvenir to remember your time in Wittenberg.

7. Cranach House and Courtyard

Gifted German artist Lucas Cranach the Elder resided in this house for several years in the 16th century. Together with publisher Christian Döring, he operated a printing press here, which published September Testament by Martin Luther. In 1517-18, Cranach expanded his work in the courtyard of Schlossstrasse 1, a hop away from the house, and did business with wax, paper, paints etc. Both the house and the courtyard are open to the public. From November to March, the attraction is closed on Mondays. Please look up the opening times for different times of the year before planning your trip.

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Plan Your Trip to Wittenberg: Best of Wittenberg Tourism

Wittenberg, Germany

Essential wittenberg.

Wittenberg Is Great For

Art & history.

Eat & drink

• martas Hotel Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Best Western Soibelmanns Lutherstadt Wittenberg
• Brauhaus Wittenberg
• Hotel Schwarzer Baer
• Cranach Herberge
• Wittenberger Kartoffelhaus
• WittenBurger
• von Bora Restaurant
• Restaurant Luther Birke Wittenberg
• Castle Church
• Lutherhalle/Lutherhaus
• Stadtkirche
• Luther 1517
• The Market Square

Top Things to Do in Wittenberg, Germany - Wittenberg Must-See Attractions

Things to Do in Wittenberg

Explore popular experiences, tours in and around wittenberg.

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Leipzig private tour - Half day

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Wittenberg, Germany

Where is wittenberg.

Wittenberg is a town of 50,000 inhabitants in Saxony Anhalt that is renowned for its role at the heart of the Protestant Reformation at the start of the 16th century.

Since 1922 the town has been known as 'Lutherstadt Wittenberg' - it was here that Martin Luther took the famous stand of nailing his '95 theses' to the church door.

Sites related to Luther and to his colleague Philip Melanchthon are listed, along with those in nearby Eisleben, as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

How to get to Wittenberg

Closest airport to wittenberg.

Saxony-Anhalt does have its own small airport at Magdeberg - currently unused by scheduled services - but by far the most convenient place to fly into is Berlin for the choice of destinations and frequency of flights.

Distance to Leipzig-Halle Airport: 77km Distance to Berlin-Brandenburg Airport: 116km Distance to Hannover Airport: 233km Distance to Erfurt-Weimar Airport: 237km

Leipzig-Halle Airport is the closest but only has a restricted international selection (not counting summer sun holiday destinations).

Train station at Wittenberg

Wittenberg has a number of railway stations within the town boundaries, but the principal is called Lutherstadt Wittenberg Bahnhof, which is served by InterCity trains from Berlin, Leipzig , Dortmund and Munich . The main railway station is probably a 20 minute walk from the tourist information office in the centre of the town.

The other useful train station is Lutherstadt Wittenberg Altstadt, which is served by hourly regional trains in the direction of Dessau. This is much closer to the old town.

Where to stay in Wittenberg

The main UNESCO sights in the town are clustered around a compact area between the train station and the castle church. Most of the hotels are in this area, although independent visitors should book as soon as is possible for town centre hotels as organised tours to the town make the accommodation very popular.

Wittenberg accommodation map

If you know when you are planning to go but haven't decided on accommodation, then use the map below to get an idea of which properties are available and to compare prices during the period you wish to travel.

Enter your proposed dates and use the '+' to zoom in on a location and reveal more properties. Click on the price above a property to see more information.

( Please note that this selection will also include some guesthouses, pensions and self-catering apartments for those who are interested in that form of accommodation !)

Check accommodation availability in Wittenberg

Alternatively, if you would like a list of properties available on your proposed dates of travel, use the search box below to find accommodation:

History of Wittenberg

While Wittenberg is best-known for being one of the centres for the Protestant Reformation, it does have a history both before and after those events.

It was once the residence of the rulers of the region - the Dukes of Saxe-Wittenberg - and was later renowned for its university, which was so well-known in those days that it was the location for Hamlet's studies in the Shakespeare play.

Its position on the Elbe River also made it an important location for tradesmen and markets.

The first use of the name Wittenberg is towards the end of the 12th century, although archaeological sites prove that the area had been settled thousands of years before.

Within a century the town had become the residence of the Saxe-Wittenberg ruling family, one of the many squabbling small states in this part of Germany created by inheritance and dynastic arguments. The settlement also obtained its town charter and around 50 years later the right to hold a market.

The statelet also became the Electorate of Saxony (also sometimes termed Upper Saxony) with Wittenberg as its capital. Electorate meant that the rulers of the town had a vote in the election of a Holy Roman Emperor, a very prestigious position in the Middle Ages.

The original ruling family died out and the Electorate passed into the hands of the Wettin dynasty, who controlled much of what is now Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia.

It was members of this family who started the contruction of the Wittenberg castle as their residence and the castle church of All Saints, which became famous through the later actions of Martin Luther. They also founded the University of Wittenberg for the study of law, theology and medicine, later also to feature heavily in the history of Protestantism.

Martin Luther and Wittenberg

Since the 1920s Wittenberg's official title has been 'Lutherstadt Wittenberg' - literally 'Luther Town'.

Not only did Martin Luther spend much of his life here, but his actions in the town against the traditional church were central to the growth of the Reformation and Lutheranism.

Luther came to Wittenberg near the start of the 16th century and took up a position in the theology faculty, a faculty he later chaired.

His first and major action during his time in Wittenberg was to write the document that became known as 'the 95 Theses'.

At that time, the church was trying to raise money for rebuilding St Peter's Basilica in Rome. One of the ways that they attempted to do this was by selling what were called 'indulgences'. Essentially, what you could do was buy (in the form of a donation to the church) forgiveness for sins that you may have committed.

Martin Luther wrote to his superior, the Bishop of Mainz, protesting against this practice. Allegedly, he nailed a copy of his arguments against the sale of indulgences to the doors of the castle church in Wittenberg although some current historians believe that this action never took place. (The church door visitors see now are replicas from the 19th century - the originals were burned during fighting during the Seven Years' War.)

But it was not until the 95 Theses were translated into German that the protests which would result in the Lutheran Reformation really took off. Luther himself became a tremendously popular preacher who drew large crowds from around Europe. As his personal popularity and support for his beliefs grew, he became a threat to the established church who sent him orders to recant his teachings or face excommunication.

Luther's response was to burn the letter along with other religious writings that he disapproved of on what is now the site of the 'Luther Oak' in Wittenberg. He was promptly excommunicated and went into hiding at Wartburg Castle in Thuringia disguised as a young nobleman ('Junker Jörg').

After his exile in hiding, Luther emerged in Wittenberg once again to become a moderate force in the Reformation where more radical believers were pushing even further against the religious and social structures at the time. He rejected the violent attempts to overthrow the 'natural order' of society which resulted in the Peasants' War and the defeat of the radicals.

Martin Luther preached in the Church of St Mary (the 'town church' as opposed to the 'castle church') in Wittenberg and held the first mass in German there. Luther's marriage to Katharina von Bora, a former nun who he had helped escape from a convent, was also celebrated in the church.

He lived in Wittenberg in the former 'Black Monastery', now known as the Luther House and where there is a Luther Museum with exhibits and some of the rooms that Luther used to spread his teachings.

Martin Luther died in nearby Eisleben where he had been born but his body was returned to Wittenberg and he was buried in the Castle Church.

Wittenberg After Luther

Martin Luther was not the only important Protestant to have lived in Wittenberg. Another theologian, Philip Melanchthon (born as Philipp Schwartzerdt), was a principal collaborator of Luther's and the two are considered to be the founding fathers of Protestantism. His former house can also be visited and his tomb is also in the Castle Church.

Another important personality of the Reformation was the Upper Saxony court painter Lucas Cranach the Elder. He supported Luther and painted scenes which interpreted the new beliefs. The altar in the Church of St Mary is by Lucas Cranach the Elder. His work was followed by his son, Lucas Cranach the Younger, who also worked in the city.

Although it remained the centre of the German Reformation, Wittenberg suffered in the religious wars that followed by losing its status as the residence of the rulers of the area.

Like many cities in the area it was also hit by bouts of the plague and by subsequent wars - the Seven Years' War was when much of the old City Castle and Church were destroyed.

In Napoleonic times it was occupied by the French and was again damaged badly, this time by the Prussian Army, who took control of the city after the defeat of Napoleon.

It became a garrison town and, later, an industrial centre. From the 19th century onwards, its status as a memorial to the events of the German Reformation began to be recognised and nowadays tourism is a main factor in the economy of the town.

The Luther Decade started in 2008 and reached its culmination in 2017 - the 500th anniversary of the year that Martin Luther posted the 95 Theses on the church door.

Other towns and cities on the Elbe river

Dresden is renowned for its baroque and rococo architecture and picturesque Elbe River setting. Visitors will discover historic landmarks, such as the Dresden Frauenkirche, Zwinger Palace, and the Semperoper Opera House, which have been restored after the devastating bombing in World War II.

Meissen is a small town in eastern Germany, known for its porcelain production. The Meissen Porcelain Manufactory remains one of its main attractions. The Albrechtsburg castle overlooking the Elbe river is another major historical sight. Meissen is the centre of a winegrowing area with the vineyards along the Elbe valley.

Tourist Office in Wittenberg

The Wittenberg tourist office is situated near the Schlosskirche at the opposite end of the old town to the main train station. The tourist office is open seven days a week with shorter opening hours at the weekend. Website : www.lutherstadt-wittenberg.de

© GermanSights.com

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center (Jeremy Long - WITF)

Gettysburg museum, visitor center reopened after suspicious package

Update:  The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center was reopened at noon after being closed for four hours. The area was determined to be safe, but available information is limited because the investigation is ongoing.

Previously reported: 

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is closed until further notice.

An employee discovered a “suspicious package” outside the main visitor entrance around 7 a.m on Tuesday. 

Jason Martz, a National Park Service spokesman at the park, said internal safety protocols were immediately followed. 

The area was evacuated, and the Pennsylvania State Police bomb squad was called to investigate 

The closure comes during the start of the busy tourism season at the Civil War battlefield.

“It’s possible that it may be a little lighter just because of the bulk of people maybe were traveling and visiting on Saturday, Sunday, Monday. But we’re still right in the thick of busy Spring season,” Martz said. “There’s still school groups coming for field trips.”

He said there isn’t a timeline for reopening until the bomb squad gives the all-clear. 

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Years of planning and preparation turns US Women's Open into a spectacle

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Orange school board approves trip to Peru for Spanish students

• Updated: May. 29, 2024, 3:45 p.m. |
• Published: May. 29, 2024, 11:37 a.m.

Superintendent Lynn Campbell, right, recognizes three teachers in the Orange City School District who were awarded continuing contracts by the Board of Education Tuesday (May 28). At left is Treasurer Todd Puster. (Ed Wittenberg, special to cleveland.com)

• Ed Wittenberg, special to cleveland.com

PEPPER PIKE, Ohio -- Orange High School Spanish students will travel to Peru for the first time via an International Homestay Experience.

The Orange Board of Education approved the proposal Tuesday (May 28) in the Orange High School auditorium.

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