The Birthplace of the Protestant Reformation
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Overview
Wittenberg, officially known as Lutherstadt Wittenberg, is a city of immense historical and cultural significance. Located on the Elbe River, it is not a port for ocean cruises but a key destination for river cruise itineraries that sail between cities like Berlin and Prague. Wittenberg is universally recognized as the cradle of the Protestant Reformation, forever etched in history as the place where Martin Luther nailed his "95 Theses" to the door of the Castle Church in 1517.
A visit to Wittenberg is a journey through a living piece of history. The city's charming Old Town, largely spared from destruction during World War II, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a compact, walkable treasure trove of Reformation-era landmarks. From the famous church doors to the homes of Luther and his contemporaries, the city tells a powerful story of religious change that shaped the modern world. Beyond its historical importance, Wittenberg is a delightful German town with beautiful Renaissance architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
The most famous landmark in Wittenberg is the Castle Church (Schlosskirche). While the original door was burned, a bronze replacement now marks the spot where Martin Luther is said to have nailed his 95 Theses. The church is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its impressive tower offers a great view of the city.
Tip: Take a moment to read the 95 Theses, which are inscribed on the door in Latin, and learn about their significance.
Explore the Lutherhaus, the former monastery and home of Martin Luther, which is now the world's largest museum dedicated to the Reformation. The museum contains an incredible collection of original artifacts, including Luther's study and personal belongings.
Tip: The museum is comprehensive. Allow plenty of time to explore the exhibits, which provide a detailed look into the life and work of Martin Luther.
The heart of Wittenberg is the beautiful Market Square (Marktplatz). The square is dominated by statues of Martin Luther and his collaborator Philip Melanchthon, as well as the magnificent Renaissance-style town hall. The square is a perfect place to sit, relax, and soak in the city's atmosphere.
Tip: The town hall is a beautiful building, and the surrounding historic houses provide a picturesque backdrop.
The City Church, St. Mary's, is where Martin Luther preached most of his sermons. This is considered the mother church of the Protestant Reformation. The church's interior is a magnificent example of German Gothic architecture and contains a famous altarpiece by Lucas Cranach the Elder.
Tip: The altarpiece is a significant work of art that depicts the Reformation's key figures and messages.
Just a short walk from the Lutherhaus is the Melanchthonhaus, the home of Philip Melanchthon, a key figure in the Reformation and a close friend of Martin Luther. The beautifully preserved Renaissance building and its gardens offer a glimpse into the life of one of the period's great scholars.
Tip: The house is a great example of the rich architecture of the time and provides a deeper understanding of the intellectual circles that fueled the Reformation.
Take a break from the historical sites with a quiet walk along the banks of the Elbe River. The river is a central feature of the city's geography and offers a chance to see the landscape that was so important to the city's trade and development.
Tip: Many river cruise ships dock right near the city center, making it easy to hop off and begin your exploration on foot.
Aboard
Viking Astrild
From
Berlin, Germany
41 Sailings
Mar 11, 2026 - Nov 17, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Astrild
From
Prague, Czech Republic
39 Sailings
Mar 16, 2026 - Nov 22, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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