Does the name Junker Jörg ring a bell? No? Then perhaps with the note ‘Wartburg’? Still not? In case you are taken by surprise by the question in ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’: Junker Jörg found refuge in Eisenach in 1521 after he had been ostracised because of his Reformation teachings. During his stay, he translated the New Testament into German. He did all this under his real name: Martin Luther.

The sensational work was published from September 1522, followed by the first parts of the Old Testament the following year. By doing so, Luther made biblical content accessible to the common people. A milestone that was to have a lasting impact on the German language and the Christian world. Luther did not take the writings word for word, but rather tried to translate biblical statements into German in their literal sense.

The Wartburg –
landmark and namesake for cars

This review serves as an introduction to this travel story – which we begin in the shadow of Wartburg Castle. An 11^th-century masterpiece high on the hills of the Thuringian town. If you visit it, you should leave your car in the city – the ascent is far too beautiful not to walk. On top of that, the famous Thuringian bratwurst tastes even better afterwards. A visit to the Wartburg is well worth – because it has a lot more to offer than just the Luther Room. The car fans among you will certainly find it hard not to purchase a miniature Wartburg in the museum shop. The small models are reminiscent of the industrial highlights of this city: After all, Eisenach was not only the home of the Eisenach Automobile Works, which were founded in 1896. It was here in the heart of Thuringia that some of Germany’s first automobiles were created.

In the 20^th century, domestic automobile production experienced various ups and downs – especially during the time of the German Democratic Republic, when the Wartburg 311 became a symbol of the East German automotive industry. This history also shaped the city and marks an important part of its cultural heritage. A great place of pilgrimage is the Eisenach Automobile Museum. It offers an excellent overview of the more than 100-year history of automobile production in the city. The brand with the Blitz remains loyal to Eisenach: Opel is the only manufacturer to produce cars in Eisenach to this day. Quality made in Germany. The latest generation of the award-winning Grandland currently roles off the production line.

Opel’s top-of-the-line SUV is certainly an eye-catcher, and we are often asked about it while en route. Of course, many Eisenach residents work at the Opel plant and are visibly proud of their current baby. When strolling through the pretty old town of Eisenach, two addresses are recommended: the Luther House, where the famous theologian spent his childhood. The museum offers exciting insights into his early life and his world of thought. Tip number two: the Bach House, which is dedicated to the city’s most famous child. It offers interesting exhibitions about the life and works of the composer, provides information about his childhood in Eisenach and – of course – celebrates his compositions.

Hungry? How about Thuringian dumplings? The Thuringian bratwurst is all too often mentioned as a local speciality – although there are also the famous dumplings from the region. They go perfectly with a well-made Sunday roast. We were served a portion at the Kartoffelhaus Eisenach and were thrilled. After so much history and delicious food, one Eisenach chapter is still missing: the nature at the gates of the city, which is considered a paradise for nature lovers. The Thuringian Forest as a large and popular hiking area provides picturesque backdrops, especially in spring and autumn.

When we sit back in the Grandland at the end of the trip and the Wartburg becomes smaller in the rear-view mirror, we are sure: Eisenach, we will be back.