Leipzig: Where Diversity Is Lived
Partner contribution from Leipzig Region
Leipzig – the city that breathes music history
Bach, Mendelssohn, Wagner or Schumann – the list of great composers who once worked in Leipzig is long. Even today the power of the city of music is palpable: its world-famous musical heritage also includes the Gewandhaus Orchestra, the Thomanerchor boys' choir at St Thomas Church and the Leipzig Opera, which ensure that the great musical tradition lives on. Here classical music lovers can enjoy motets, operettas or grand concerts every week, or attend the festivals held each year.
Along the Leipzig Music Trail you can explore the city of music independently. Visit the authentic homes and workplaces of renowned composers. Today they house interactive museums that bring history to life.
Art in Leipzig – from industrial heritage to the Panometer
Leipzig is a vibrant centre of art and culture. In museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts (MdbK) or the GRASSI Museum you will experience an impressive mix of works by old masters and contemporary artists. The connection between art and industrial heritage in the city is particularly fascinating. The Spinnerei, once the largest cotton mill in Europe, has developed into an international art centrewith galleries and studios, where Neo Rauch, one of the co-founders of the New Leipzig School, also works. This unique atmosphere continues at the Kunstkraftwerk , whose immersive exhibitions let visitors dive into art. An absolute highlight is the Panometer Leipzig, whose impressive 360-degree panoramas by Yadegar Asisi whisk visitors away to fascinating worlds. Leipzig's art scene is diverse and dynamic – a must for every art lover.
History in Leipzig
Leipzig is the centre of the Peaceful Revolution. Every year on 9 October, Leipzig commemorates the Monday demonstrations that set the ball rolling for German reunification with the Festival of Lights. Several artist collectives have applied to make the city ring glow.
If you drive south-east out of the city centre, you will see the 91-metre-high Monument to the Battle of the Nations behind the Old Trade Fair Grounds, commemorating the Battle of the Nations in 1813 that led to Napoleon's defeat. The viewing platform offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Green Leipzig – the city of parks and canals
Hardly any city is threaded with as much greenery as Leipzig. The Johanna Park is a popular green urban oasis and, besides a little time out, offers a view of the New Town Hall and the university tower. The Rosental adjoins Leipzig Zoo, which has been named the best zoo in Germany. Every year the Gewandhaus Orchestra's season ends in the park with the free open-air festival “Klassik airleben”.
If you want even more nature, head out of the city into the Leipzig countryside. In the region, dense forests and idyllic river landscapes along the Mulde and Elbe invite you to cycle and hike. On picturesque routes you will also discover the various castles and palaces, where even Hollywood has filmed.
Leipzig is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts: from the city harbour you can hire kayaks and canoes or book guided motorboat tours that lead through dreamy canals and the Neuseenland lake district. Whether sailing, diving or stand-up paddling – the 20 lakes around Leipzig offer a wide range of activities for water lovers.
More information: www.leipzig.travel