Eisenach

Eisenach is a historic city in Thuringia, Germany, famous for being the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wartburg Castle. The city played a crucial role in German history and culture, from medieval times through the Reformation and beyond. The city's most famous landmark is Wartburg Castle, where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German while in hiding. This medieval fortress overlooks the city and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. The castle also hosted the legendary song contest of the Minnesingers and was where Saint Elisabeth of Hungary lived. Eisenach is the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685), one of the greatest composers in Western music history. The Bach House museum celebrates his life and work. The city also has strong connections to the automobile industry - the Wartburg car was manufactured here during the GDR era. The city center features well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Gothic St. George Church where Bach was baptized. Eisenach's location at the edge of the Thuringian Forest makes it a popular base for hiking and outdoor activities.