Martin Luthers Sterbehaus

In the heart of Lutherstadt Eisleben, nestled against the backdrop of the historic St. Andreas Church, stands a building of profound historical intrigue and cultural significance: the Martin Luther's Death House. This site, long believed to be the place where Martin Luther, the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation, took his last breath on February 18, 1546, is now a captivating museum that draws visitors from around the globe.

A Journey Through History

The origins of Martin Luther's Death House date back to the aftermath of the great town fire of 1498, which led to the construction of this late Gothic, two-story eaves house. Initially serving as the residence of the town clerk, the building has an architectural charm that is both quaint and majestic. Its street-facing façade is crowned with a steep gabled roof, while a narrow side wing, added around 1600, extends towards the courtyard.

Despite recent findings suggesting that the actual site of Luther's death might be the nearby Hotel Graf von Mansfeld, this house remains a symbol of his final days. It was here, with the Drachstedt family, that Luther spent his last moments, and it was in the 17th century that the house was first identified as his death place, albeit likely in error. Regardless of the historical discrepancies, the building has been preserved and celebrated as a monument to Luther's enduring legacy.

Architectural Marvels

The Death House is not only a site of historical importance but also a testament to architectural evolution. Acquired by the Prussian state in 1863, it underwent significant restoration and historical redesign by Friedrich August Ritter between 1863 and 1868. This renovation included the reconstruction of the ground floor's doors and windows, featuring richly profiled ogee-arched windows and a seat niche portal in late Gothic style.

The upper floor, originally a half-timbered structure, was rebuilt in solid form, with a new layout and removal of the original courtyard gallery. The main living area, long thought to be Luther's death room, still boasts its original beam ceiling. A small bedroom on this floor retains furnishings from the 16th century, offering a glimpse into the past. The addition of a conference room and the reconstruction of a flat bay window on corbels further enhance the building's historical narrative.

A Museum of Reformation Artifacts

Today, Martin Luther's Death House serves as a museum, inviting visitors to explore its rich collection of artifacts and artworks. Among these treasures is the poignant historical painting Luther's Last Confession by William Pape, created in 1905. The museum also houses an epitaph originally from the St. Andreas Church, depicting the Lamentation of Christ, believed to be the work of Hans Döring from around 1517/18.

Another notable piece is an epitaph painting by Heinrich Göding from 1569, portraying the last ordination conducted by Luther at the St. Andreas Church. These artworks provide a deep connection to the theological and cultural shifts initiated by Luther and his contemporaries.

A Modern Tribute to the Past

Following extensive renovations and the addition of a new building, the museum was reopened on February 1, 2013. The Stuttgart-based architectural firm VON M took on the challenge of integrating the diverse building materials while adhering to strict heritage conservation standards. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, earning the site several architectural accolades, including the 2013 Saxony-Anhalt Award and the 2014 Fritz-Hoeger Prize in Gold.

The museum's design incorporates specially crafted bricks produced using the water-struck method, contributing to its atmospheric appeal. These thoughtful renovations ensure that the Death House continues to be a beacon of historical reflection and architectural beauty.

Visiting Martin Luther's Death House

A visit to Martin Luther's Death House is a journey through time, offering insights into the life and legacy of one of history's most influential figures. As you wander through its halls, you are transported back to the Reformation era, surrounded by the echoes of theological debate and the spirit of change that Luther embodied.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply curious about the life of Martin Luther, this museum promises an enriching experience. Its blend of historical authenticity and modern interpretation makes it a must-visit destination in Lutherstadt Eisleben, where the past and present coexist in a celebration of cultural heritage.