Luther was here

The Augustinian Monastery in the heart of Erfurt's old town is one of those refuges that are ideal for escaping everyday life. Within the venerable walls of the centuries-old monastery, you can not only find inspiration and new perspectives but also walk where history was made.

It is among the most important Luther sites in Germany and attracts Lutherans from all over the world to Thuringia. But there is more to it: it is a cultural monument, a conference centre, a museum, a meeting place, an event venue, and a place to stay overnight.

New permanent exhibition about “Frustration and Freedom”

The new permanent exhibition “Frustration and Freedom” takes a look at significant events that are linked with the monastery. They include the Erfurt Union Parliament, which met here in 1850, and the Peaceful Revolution of 1989. Of course, Martin Luther must be part of the modern exhibition. After all, it was in the Augustinian Monastery in Erfurt, where he became a mendicant monk and started his search for freedom in faith. Visitors can learn a lot about the monastery's most famous resident, who also makes an impressive appearance as an AI-generated master of ceremonies.

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The basis for the “AI Luther” was the iconic painting that Cranach made of the later reformer. He was brought to life by Erfurt actor Tim Röde, who even had to sacrifice his beard because his facial expressions were used to animate the painting via artificial intelligence. The effort was worth it. The talking portrait reminds a bit of the chatting paintings at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. But even without “magic” it is fascinating. Visitors to the exhibition are repeatedly surprised, amused, and curious about Luther and what he has to say. A unique experience!

Fascinating places in the Augustinerkloster in Erfurt

It is not inconsistency that the Augustinian Monastery is so modern and tech-savvy, but rather part of the overall concept. Unmistakably modern elements contrast with the venerable walls of the sacred building and create a varied overall picture. Historic masonry and mirror-smooth glass facades form an architectural composition that not only makes for spectacular photo motifs but also leaves a lasting impression. While the monastery appears rather inconspicuous or “typically sacred” from the outside, its interior reveals completely new and sometimes even surprising views. This may explain why many visitors find themselves whispering “wow” in awe as they look around.

Walking around the Augustinian Monastery in Erfurt, you will come across the place’s stories. Take, for example, the Rose Chapel, an enchanting outdoor oasis dedicated to love and blessings, also ideal for a short break and a chance to take a deep breath. Somewhat hidden and away from the hustle and bustle of the monastery, the Rose Chapel reveals its full beauty: shady trees, lushly blooming, beguilingly fragrant rose bushes, old monastery walls, and a striking wooden cross make up the lovely atmosphere of this place, which Augustinian priest Bernd Prigge also appreciates.

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The historical library impresses with its huge collection of works, © Florian Trykowski

However, he not only enjoys spending time in the Rose Chapel, but also knows about the special appeal of the historic library with its impressive collection of books. After several moves over the past 380 years, the monastery library is now located in the dormitory, the former sleeping quarters of the mendicant monks. In the place where once Martin Luther probably  spent the night, visitors today marvel at the majesty of the library. Meter-high windows, a wood-panelled pointed vault ceiling, shelves where thousands of historical works are crammed together, exuding their unmistakable scent. All this is reminiscent of Hogwarts again, and no one would be surprised if Harry Potter himself suddenly entered the room. But even he, like all other guests, would have to register in advance to visit or use the historic monastery library.

The Augustinerkirche in Erfurt undergoing change

The Augustinian Church, on the other hand, is freely accessible. The church, with its intricately designed and impressive stained-glass windows from the 14th century, is facing a redesign in the coming years. The plan is to make it brighter, better for church music, and more historically conscious, while remaining true to the simple style of the Augustinian hermits.

The Augustinian Monastery in Erfurt is a place of contrasts and will probably always remain so. Here, where historical sites meet contemporary reinterpretations, there is an aura that captivates people – regardless of faith or spirituality.

Cover: © Clemens Bauerfeind