Stadtgeschichtliches Museum Leipzig, Altes Rathaus — Attraction in Leipzig

The museum attempts to cover the whole of Leipzig's history from its foundation to the present day. To be honest I found its presentation "bitty" and "dry". The exhibits were annotated in English. But in hindsight it might, perhaps, have been better to have taken an audio guide. The sections dealing with the first foundation​ and the post war were the most engaging. But I found myself positively skipping through the rest. I have to say that history has not yet given the very basic achievements of the post-war Communist DDR (German Democratic Republic) regime some credit : and not surprisingly I suppose given its appalling record on human rights. But what is generally forgotten is that it rebuilt a country which emerged from WW2 in complete ruin and abject poverty (just look at the photos!) And without aid from the outside world or from its mentor the Soviet Union (unlike W Germany and other parts of W Europe which received huge dollops of Marshall Aid from the USA) : And while still paying the latter significant war reparations together with the cost of its stationing a garrison of some half a million Soviet Army soldiers "for its protection". And despite all this managed in the 1970's to make the country the pre-eminent economic powerhouse of the Communist states of Eastern Europe. Would I visit again ? No : but I would accompany someone...

The highlight of the old town is the Old Town Hall, one of the oldest in Germany with many of it's buildings originating from the XVI Century. Built in 1556 in the renaissance style, the interior of the Old City Hall is far more interesting than the outside view, Inside there's an interesting museum covering the history of Leipzig from the very beginnings (in 12th century) till our days. Entrance fee: €2.50.

Within the town you can also see the historic squares of the Naschmarkt and the larger Markt. Around these attractions are St. Nicholas Church and several of the fine old shopping arcades that characterise the historic centre of the city. The train station is conveniently nearby, so everything is in walking distance. Around the Old town you will find plenty stylish German restaurants, cafes and bars where to enjoy traditional and...

The staff at this museum were friendly and helpful. Tickets are €6 for adults, €3 for students, and there are free audio guides and lockers with coat hangers. The museum is split into two levels. If you want to see all the rooms and exhibits, budget about 45 minutes to 1 hour per level. Afterwards, or even during your visit (you can leave and come back on the same ticket), it's worth getting coffee or brunch at Alex Café just across the plaza, where you can also check out a grand statue of Goethe. Museum highlights include original paintings of Martin Luther by Lucas Cranach the Younger (1564) and of J.S. Bach by Elias Gottlob Haussmann (1748), as well as a reconstructed trumpet from Bach's time. Also noteworthy was an immersive video installation on the top floor, which simulated air raids on Leipzig...