Torgau

Torgau enchants visitors from afar with Hartenfels Castle: imposingly enthroned on the Elbe, it is the anchor point of a journey through the glorious Renaissance and the turbulent Reformation. It leads through the alleyways of the former royal seat, past over 500 individual monuments, through museums and exhibitions. Visitors experience history in every corner. As a certified family-friendly town, Torgau is also an ideal excursion destination for young and old.

It is the best-preserved early Renaissance castle in Germany and the heart of Torgau: the magnificent Hartenfels Castle. Even in the times of the electors, it was one of the most modern residential palaces in Saxony, the venue for magnificent festivals and important state assemblies. Virtually unchanged, the castle courtyard exudes the splendor of bygone times, which can be seen in architectural masterpieces such as the Great Wendelstein. In addition to exhibitions and splendor, the castle is home to two furry residents. You read that right: Two brown bears greet visitors in the castle moat, where they are cared for in a species-appropriate manner.

The castle chapel is the only Protestant church building consecrated by Martin Luther and bears witness to the time when Torgau became the "nurse of the Reformation". Luther spent over 60 times in the town, where his wife Katharina von Bora found her final resting place. Her grave is in the town church of St. Mary's and there is a memorial to Luther in the house where she died.

The Elbe is just a stone's throw away from the city center. Those seeking peace and quiet can relax here and cyclists can enjoy a section of the Elbe cycle path. Those looking for a little more action will find it on the former site of the State Garden Show: A play and climbing area, a skate park and the oak tree playground invite you to let off steam here. The "Torgauer Arche" petting zoo promises animal fun, and the "Deichgucker" offers a panoramic view of the Elbe floodplains.