Erfurt, the capital of the free state of Thuringia, is located right in the heart of Germany, which gives it its favorable location for transport and travel. Erfurt is also in the immediate vicinity of famous towns and cities such as Weimar, Jena and Eisenach. With more than 200,000 inhabitants, Erfurt is once again rapidly developing into a university city with great flair and character.
Many unique features characterize the medieval city of Erfurt, which is not only the largest city in Thuringia but is also one of the oldest cities in central Germany. The city's eventful history began over 1,250 years ago with its early development as an economic, political and cultural center being largely due to its favorable location at the crossroads of important European trade routes. Prominent figures such as Martin Luther, Ulrich von Hutten, Adam Ries, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Friedrich Schiller and Wilhelm von Humboldt have a close association with the history of the city.
The charm of the well preserved and carefully restored medieval part of the city with its traditional patrician houses, picturesque alleys and squares can be discovered in the Andreas- and University quarter.