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Leipzig
Several people are amazed by Leipzig's beauty. Any preconceived idea of a shabby, grey, socialist metropolis is swiftly forgotten upon arrival. Leipzig's city centre has been completely renovated since German reunification and its magnificent historical buildings once again enjoy in their former splendor. An interesting example is the Hauptbahnhof, an impressive turn-of-the-century construction which used to be Europe's biggest train station, but which has now been become a Mecca for shoppers. Several shops around 130 and boutiques now compete for consumers' hard-earned Deutschmarks. As a comment, anyone who was linked with Leipzig before 1989 would scarcely recognize the city today. The motto "Leipzig is coming!" is awfully appropriate motto for this forward-looking city.
Yet the traces of Leipzig's recent past are still evident. If you walk down some of the side-streets outside the city center, you can't help but detect the extent at which the city was permitted to fall into disrepair during the socialist East German era. Decomposed old buildings are overshadowed by enormous, prefabricated high-rises, which although spruced up, still be situated out as unshapely hulks and blot the otherwise harmonious cityscape.
Most of Leipzig's principal sights are conveniently accessible on foot, and are often interspersed by tree-lined parks and squares–making a stroll through the city center a relaxing and agreeable experience. Good public transport connects also make excursions to the outlying areas a easy way.
More Leipzig Information / Fast Facts and Orientation
- Country: Germany
- Location: Federal State of Saxony (Western Saxony)
- Status: city (largest in state)
- Area: approximately 115 square miles / 297 square kilometres
- Population: approximately 510,000
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Time zone: GMT + 1 hour
- Electricity: 220 Volts AC, 50 Hz - flat two-pin plugs or third round pin are used, adaptors may be necessary in Germany
- Country Dialling code: +49
- Telephone area code: 0341
- Religion: numerous Greek Orthodox, Lutheran, Presbyterian and Protestant churches
- Average daily Leipzig January temperature: 2°C / 36°F
- Average daily Leipzig July temperature: 23°C / 73°F
The ideal base for reconnaissance of this part of Saxony; several attractions are close to Leipzig and include the World Heritage Site of Wörlitz Park, the appealing town of Dessau, and the WWII Escape Museum at Colditz.
For others, the thrills and stimulating attractions at the nearby Belantis Amusement Park are just the ticket.
Also close to Leipzig, estimate visiting the several sights around the Saale Valley, the cities of Delitzsch and Merseburg, and the annual wine festival at the town of Freyburg, which is held each year in the middle of September.
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