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Museums #6 in Eisenach

Lutherhaus Eisenach

4.5 · 1,126 reviews
Intellectual and historically immersive
Lutherhaus Eisenach, Lutherpl. 8, 99817 Eisenach
Interesting facts
1

The house is often referred to as the 'Cotta House,' named after the Cotta family who hosted Luther during his youth.

2

The museum preserves a medieval-style 'stube' or living room typical of the late 15th century.

3

The permanent exhibition features the famous Cranach Bible, which was translated by Luther and illustrated by Lucas Cranach the Elder.

4

Archaeological findings during the 2013-2015 renovation revealed structural elements dating back to 1269.

5

The museum uses digital media stations to allow visitors to engage with historical manuscripts and Reformation-era texts.

Overview

The Lutherhaus Eisenach is one of the oldest half-timbered buildings in Thuringia, dating back to the 13th century. It commemorates the period from 1498 to 1501 when Martin Luther lived here as a schoolboy while attending the St. George's Latin school. The museum showcases the 'Luther and the Bible' permanent exhibition, detailing the history of the Reformation and the translation of the Bible. The house underwent extensive renovation between 2013 and 2015 to modernize its facilities while preserving its historical integrity. It received the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage in 2017. The site functions as both a memorial and a research center dedicated to Luther's formative years. The building is situated at Lutherplatz 8 in Eisenach, near the historic town square.

Photo spot

The exterior timber-framed facade viewed from the cobblestoned Lutherplatz.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with the Bach House, which is located in the same city and represents another major cultural figure of Eisenach.

Focus on the 'Luther and the Bible' exhibit first to understand the context of his work before exploring the medieval living quarters.

Check the museum's digital portal prior to visiting to see if any temporary academic research exhibits are currently on display.

What to avoid

Do not mistake the Lutherhaus for the Wartburg Castle; while both are linked to Luther, they are separate historical sites located at different elevations.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays during the off-season months.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and larger tour parties.
Address
Lutherhaus Eisenach, Lutherpl. 8, 99817 Eisenach
50.973, 10.320
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsCranach Bible, historical medieval living room, Reformation-era manuscripts

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and larger tour parties..

The exterior timber-framed facade viewed from the cobblestoned Lutherplatz.

Close by you'll find Wartburg, Automobile Welt Eisenach, Bachhaus Eisenach.