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Stotternheim // “Help me, St. Anne, and I will become a monk!”

In 1505 on a return trip back to Erfurt after visiting his parents in Mansfeld, a young Martin Luther was caught in a terrible thunderstorm near Stotternheim. Lightening struck close by, throwing him to the ground. In fear for his life, he called out: “Help me, St. Anne, and I will become a monk!”

After this experience, he dropped out law school – much to the chagrin of his father – and he entered the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt, first as a guest, on July 17, 1505.

Today, there is a stone monument (“Lutherstein”) at the foot of the “Galgenhügel” (Gallows Hill)  dedicated to what happened to Luther that day. A green area with benches and a place to find cover invites travelers to stop and visit. The parking lot is also suitable for busses.

Getting there: Tram line 5 to “Grubenstraße”, then with 30, 31 bus line to the stop “Bergfeldstraße”.

Find Luther: