Erfurt

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Erfurt
City
Cathedral Square in Erfurt
Country	Germany
State	Thuringia
Government
• Mayor	Andreas Bausewein
Area
• Total	269.17 km2 (103.93 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	213,699
• Density	790/km2 (2,100/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code	99001–99198
Area code(s)	0361
Vehicle registration	EF
Website	www.erfurt.de

Erfurt is the capital city of the state of Thuringia in central Germany. It is located in the southern part of the Thuringian Basin, within the wide valley of the Gera River. Erfurt is the largest city in Thuringia and serves as an important cultural and economic center.

History

Erfurt has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was first mentioned in 742 AD when Saint Boniface founded the Diocese of Erfurt. During the Middle Ages, Erfurt was a member of the Hanseatic League and became a significant trading hub. The city was also known for its university, which was founded in 1379 and is one of the oldest in Germany.

Geography

Erfurt is situated in the central part of Germany, making it a key transportation hub. The city is surrounded by the Thuringian Forest to the south and the Harz Mountains to the north. The Gera River flows through the city, contributing to its scenic beauty.

Economy

Erfurt's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from the manufacturing, services, and education sectors. The city is home to several large companies and numerous small and medium-sized enterprises. The Erfurt-Weimar Airport and the city's central location make it an important logistics center.

Education

Erfurt is known for its educational institutions, including the University of Erfurt and the Erfurt University of Applied Sciences. These institutions attract students from all over Germany and beyond, contributing to the city's vibrant academic atmosphere.

Culture

Erfurt boasts a rich cultural heritage with numerous historical buildings, museums, and theaters. The Erfurt Cathedral and the Krämerbrücke are among the city's most famous landmarks. The city also hosts various cultural events, including the annual Erfurt Christmas Market.

Transportation

Erfurt is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Erfurt Hauptbahnhof is a major railway hub, providing connections to cities across Germany. The city's public transportation system includes buses and trams, making it easy to navigate.

Notable People

• Martin Luther, who studied at the University of Erfurt.
• Johann Sebastian Bach, who worked in the city as a young man.

Related Pages

• Thuringia
• Gera River
• University of Erfurt
• Erfurt Cathedral
• Krämerbrücke
• Erfurt-Weimar Airport

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