Martin Luther in Erfurt

Martin Luther spent ten formative years of his life in Erfurt. This time had a considerable influence on the thinking and work of the later reformer. He received an academic education at the University of Erfurt, joined the mendicant order of Augustinian hermits in the Augustinian monastery and critically examined faith and the grace of God.

As the so-called spiritual home of Martin Luther, Erfurt celebrated the anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 with numerous events, lectures, concerts, exhibitions and city tours.

The story of Martin Luther in Erfurt begins in 1501, when he was 17 years old and studying law at the Collegium maius, the University of Erfurt. After successfully completing his basic studies in the seven liberal arts, a severe thunderstorm in Stotternheim near Erfurt became a turning point in his life. He decides to become a monk.

In 1505, Martin Luther enters the Augustinian monastery and submits to the ascetic piety of the mendicant monks. Shortly afterwards, he began to study theology, was ordained a priest in St. Mary's Cathedral in 1507 and celebrated his first mass in the Augustinian church. After Luther left the city for a position in Wittenberg, he returned again and again to preach to his enthusiastic followers in the Augustinian-, Michaelis-, Barfüßer- and Kaufmanns-churches.


Luther Places in Erfurt

The Routes to Luther in Erfurt lead to the Augustinian monastery, to the Collegium Maius (the main building of the old university) and to the Georgenburse, Martin Luther’s student lodgings. In the oldest parish church in Erfurt, St Michael’s Church, the first Protestant sermon was held in 1520. Today the church is regarded as one of the most important sites of the Reformation thanks to Luther’s sermon and the work of the Erfurt reformer Johannes Lang.

The 19th century town hall contains seven paintings depicting scenes from Luther’s life. The wooden template used for Luther’s bronze epitaph can be found in St Andrew’s Church. The sculptor of the large statue of the great reformer in front of the Merchant’s Church embellished it with reliefs of Luther’s time in Erfurt. The granite pedestal bears the inscription: “I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord.” (Psalm 118, 17).

More interesting places connected with Luther


Guided Tours - Through Erfurt in Luther's Footsteps

Martin Luther in Erfurt

Discover reminders of Martin Luther’s time in Erfurt, such as the Augustinian Monastery, the cathedral and the many churches in which he preached. On your route through the town you will see all places connected with Luther. We would be delighted to organise such a tour for you.

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