In the Footsteps of Cranach - A Journey of Discovery

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A masterpiece in an authentic setting –
an early Cranach altar in St John’s Church
Neustadt an der Orla
Late-Gothic Town Hall
Neustadt an der Orla lies amid arable countryside
far removed from the tourist trail. The town has many
fascinating sights, particularly in its heritage-listed medieval
centre.
The best place to start exploring is the large market
square, which is flanked by a striking ensemble of buildings.
The late-Gothic town hall is especially beautiful because
of its magnificent stonework. Martin Luther stayed in Neustadt
an der Orla on several occasions. He presided over the
Augustinian Friars’ monastery and preached in the town.
The Luther House, where he is thought to have stayed, is one
of the most beautiful late-medieval townhouses in Thuringia.
Across the market square past the historical fleischbänke
(a medieval street of butchers’ shops) is St John’s Church,
which contains an exquisite masterpiece – a large panelled
altar by Lucas Cranach the Elder. It was one of the first commissions
that the Wittenberg court painter received from
the citizens of a town.