Torgau

Even from a distance, Torgau enchants visitors with Hartenfels Castle: it stands imposingly on the banks of the Elbe and serves as the starting point for a journey through the Renaissance and the Reformation. The route takes you through the narrow streets of the former royal seat, past over 500 individual monuments, and through numerous museums and exhibitions.

Torgau is one of Martin Luther’s most important places of activity and was once the political centre of the Reformation. The Torgau Castle Chapel at Hartenfels Castle was the world’s first newly built Protestant church, consecrated personally by Martin Luther in 1544. Katharina von Bora, Luther’s wife, also found her final resting place here. Her epitaph can still be viewed today in St Mary’s Church.

Inspired by its historical spirit, the town’s cultural life remains vibrant today. The castle courtyard serves as a backdrop for numerous events, and the rose garden also provides a special atmosphere for concerts. In addition to changing exhibitions and enduring splendour, the castle is home to two special residents: real brown bears live in the moat, where they are cared for in a manner appropriate to their species.

The castle chapel at Hartenfels Castle is the first Protestant church building to be consecrated by Martin Luther and stands as a testament to the era when Torgau became known as the ‘cradle of the Reformation’. Luther stayed in the town more than 60 times; it was here that his wife, Katharina von Bora, found her final resting place. Her grave is in St Mary’s Church, and the house where she died now houses a museum.

As a certified family-friendly holiday destination, Torgau offers the perfect setting for shared experiences involving children, parents and grandparents. Whether it’s exciting discoveries at Hartenfels Castle, encounters with animals, varied playgrounds or relaxing hours in the Elbe floodplains – here, history, nature and leisure fun come together in a special way. Explorations for young and old, family-friendly activities and unforgettable moments make Torgau an ideal destination for the whole family.

As a certified family-friendly town, Torgau is, incidentally, an ideal destination for young and old alike. Alongside its cultural highlights, the Elbe floodplains, the Große Teich lake, and the many playgrounds and expansive heathlands around Torgau are perfect for letting off steam and relaxing. Explorations for young and old, natural retreats, a dazzling cultural offering and history you can touch – all this makes up the charm of Torgau.