Getting Oriented

Getting Oriented

The three states cover the southeastern part of the former East Germany. You will still see old, dirty, and depressing industrial towns that recall the Communist past. However, some of Germany's most historic cities are here, too, and reconstruction programs are slowly restoring them. Dresden is promoting its reputation as "the Florence on the Elbe," and just downstream Meissen has undergone an impressive face-lift. Weimar, one of the continent's old cultural centers, and Leipzig, in particular, have washed off their grime and almost completely restored their historic city centers. Görlitz, Germany's easternmost city, benefited from an infusion of cash and is consistently lauded as one of the country's 10 most beautiful cities.

Saxony. Saxony is the pearl of East Germany: the countryside is dotted with beautifully renovated castles and fortresses, and the people are charming and full of energy. (They also speak in an almost incomprehensible local dialect.) Dresden and Leipzig are cosmopolitan centers that combine the energy of the avant-garde with a distinct respect for tradition.

Saxony-Anhalt. Although long ignored by travelers, Saxony-Anhalt has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other region in Europe. The city of Naumburg is famed for its cathedral and for the wines produced in the surrounding vineyards.

Thuringia. Of all the East German states, Thuringia had the best tourist infrastructure. Western visitors to the classical jewel of Weimar and those intersted in outdoor sports in the lush Thuringian Forest were vital sources of hard currency. This still holds true today: Thuringia offers unparalleled natural sights as well as classical culture at reasonable prices.