10 fun facts about Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

Here are 10 fun facts about Saxony-Anhalt, one of Germany’s 16 States:

1. Lutherstadt Wittenberg: Saxony-Anhalt is home to Lutherstadt Wittenberg, the birthplace of the Protestant Reformation. It was in Wittenberg that Martin Luther famously nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Castle Church in 1517.
2. Bauhaus Dessau: The city of Dessau in Saxony-Anhalt is known for its association with the Bauhaus movement. The Bauhaus School, which revolutionized modern design, was located in Dessau from 1925 to 1932. The Bauhaus building and the Masters’ Houses are now UNESCO World Heritage sites.
3. Naumburg Cathedral: Naumburg Cathedral, officially known as St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture. It is home to the famous Naumburg Master’s sculptures, which are considered some of the finest examples of medieval art.
4. Harz Mountains: Part of the Harz mountain range extends into Saxony-Anhalt. The Harz offers beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. It is also home to the Brocken, the highest peak in northern Germany.
5. Nebra Sky Disk: The Nebra Sky Disk, a significant archaeological artifact, was discovered in Saxony-Anhalt. It is a bronze disk featuring the oldest known depiction of the cosmos and is considered one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century.
6. Magdeburg Cathedral: The Magdeburg Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Saints Catherine and Maurice, is an impressive Gothic-style cathedral. It is the oldest Gothic cathedral in Germany and houses the grave of Otto the Great, the first Holy Roman Emperor.
7. Spargel (Asparagus) Season: Saxony-Anhalt is known for its delicious white asparagus, or “Spargel.” From April to June, you can enjoy the local tradition of Spargelzeit, or asparagus season, when restaurants offer a variety of dishes featuring this seasonal delicacy.
8. Gardens of Dessau-Wörlitz: The Gardens of Dessau-Wörlitz is the first and largest English-style landscape park in continental Europe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning gardens, lakes, and historic buildings, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors.
9. Bernburg Castle: Bernburg Castle, located in the town of Bernburg, is a medieval fortress that overlooks the Saale River. It is now a museum and cultural center, showcasing the history and heritage of the region.
10. Karneval in Köthen: The city of Köthen in Saxony-Anhalt celebrates Karneval, a festive season leading up to Lent. During Karneval, colorful parades, costumes, music, and street celebrations take place, attracting locals and visitors alike.

These fun facts provide a glimpse into the rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty of Saxony-Anhalt. From significant historical sites and architectural masterpieces to stunning landscapes and unique traditions, the state offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy.

This post is part of a series, presenting fun facts for each of Germany’s 16 States – make sure to also check the other entries ;)