Eisenach

Map of Germany showing Eisenach

Eisenach is a city in Thuringia, Germany. It is situated between the northern foothills of the Thuringian Forest and the Hainich National Park. Population: 44,200 (2001).

History

The history of Eisenach is linked with the Wartburg castle, which was according to legend built in 1067. There were at least three settlements below the castle, that merged to a common city in the second half of the 12th century. This town, Eisenach, was first mentioned in 1180.

Several now legendary events took place on the Wartburg in the following decades, best known is the "Singers' Contest on the Wartburg" (which is part of the Tannhäuser legend).

After the Thuringian War of Succession (1247-1264) Eisenach became subject to the Wettin dynasty of Meissen. Later several mini states were established in what is now Thuringia, and Eisenach became a principality on its own in 1521. In 1751 Eisenach lost its independency and became part of the duchy of Saxony-Weimar.

Eisenach was the place where Martin Luther lived as a child, although he was not born there, and later for his receiving protection after having been pursued for his religious views. It was while he was staying in the Wartburg castle above the town that he translated the Bible into German.

The town is famous as the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach as well.

The Social Democratic Party of Germany was founded in 1869 in Eisenach.

Economy

Automobile manufacturing is an important part of Eisenach economy:

• Opel, as part of the overseas operations of General Motors Corporation built an entirely new plant in the northwest of the town, after the Wartburg cars plant had ceased operations in 1989. The plant opened in 1992 and was toured by President Clinton, accompanied by Federal Chancellor Helmut Kohl in May 1998 as a token of American support in the redevelopment of the Eastern part of Germany.

• BMW manufactures tools and dies in the town.

Sights

The Wartburg castle is by far the most popular tourist attraction. Following is a selection of other sights in Eisenach:

• the birth house of Johann Sebastian Bach
• the Stadtschloss (city castle) was built in 1742; today it houses the Thuringian Museum (arts and crafts)
• Nikolaikirche (a church) and Nikolaitor (the only surviving town gate), about 1180
• Georgenkirche, about 1180
• the dwelling house of Martin Luther
• town hall, built in 1564 as a wine cellar, has acted as town hall since 1596

External link

• Official website (German, English)

Referenced By