Saxony-Anhalt is where the map of modern Germany was shaped. Giving you a road trip that guides you directly through the nation's historical core. Spanning from the wild dark forests of the Harz Mountains to the fertile plains along the Elbe River. The scenery provides constant dramatic contrast. The driving here is a profound journey through time, connecting unique natural beauty with monumental historical sites that define European civilization.
It is the birthplace of the Reformation in Wittenberg, home of Martin Luther, and simultaneously the wellspring of Modernism in Dessau, site of the iconic Bauhaus school of architecture. Your route can follow the famous Straße der Romanik, linking medieval cathedrals and imperial residences that testify to the region's central role in the Holy Roman Empire.
The atmosphere in Saxony-Anhalt is defined by a sense of historical dignity. You can park near a cathedral where Emperors were crowned or walk through the enlightenment gardens where philosophers found inspiration. This is a region that rewards curiosity.
Saxony-Anhalt highlights
- Wittenberg City of the Reformation. Walk the streets where Martin Luther sparked the Reformation in 1517. Visit the Castle Church, Lutherhaus and the old town filled with stories that shaped European history.
- Harz Mountains & Brocken Peak Explore dense forests, half-timbered towns, and legends of witches and folklore. Ride the historic Brocken Railway to the summit for beautiful views across the region.
- Quedlinburg A medieval town with over 1,300 half-timbered houses. Explore one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany, famous for its half-timbered houses and castle hill.
- Dessau The birthplace of Bauhaus design. Explore the Bauhaus Building, Masters’ Houses and collections that shaped modern architecture and design worldwide.
- Naumburg Cathedral Famous for its 13th-century stone figures called the Naumburg Masters. The cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of medieval art and architecture in Germany.
- The Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz Spend a day driving and walking through this expansive landscape park. One of the earliest and largest English-style parks in continental Europe.
- Stolberg im Harz A tiny but picturesque mountain town with steep lanes, slate-roofed houses, and a castle overlooking the valley. A quiet hidden gem.
- Freyburg & Saale-Unstrut Germany’s northernmost wine region has vineyards, riverside roads and hilltop castles. Visit the historic Rotkäppchen sparkling wine cellars and enjoy panoramic tastings.
The local Four
History of Saxony-Anhalt
The history of Saxony-Anhalt is an essential road map to Germany's entire past. This region was the powerful medieval heartland of the Holy Roman Empire making it a land of kings and emperors. As you follow the old Romanesque Road today you will drive past majestic cathedrals and powerful castles in cities like Magdeburg and Naumburg. These towering stone structures show the immense political and religious power held here a thousand years ago.
This compact state later hosted two world shaking intellectual revolutions. First came Martin Luther who launched the Reformation in Wittenberg in 1517 a movement that changed Christianity forever. Centuries later the region gave birth to the future when the famous Bauhaus School moved to Dessau. This school redefined modern architecture worldwide turning the region into a laboratory for German design and thought.
The modern state is a political puzzle put together after World War II when the Soviets merged old territories like Anhalt and Prussian Saxony. This artificial creation became part of East Germany until 1990. Because of this recent history Saxony-Anhalt holds a stunning mix of styles. Your road trip spans the entire German timeline from medieval towers and Luther’s legacy to the groundbreaking principles of the Bauhaus. It is a land of fascinating historical extremes.