The best city hikes and walks in Wittenberge-Rühstädter Elbniederung

The Stadtkirche St. Marien in Wittenberg, first mentioned in 1187, is considered the mother church of the Reformation, where Martin Luther preached from 1512 onwards. As the oldest building in the city (built from approx. 1281), it was the scene of the first German-language Protestant service. It houses the Cranach Altar and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Main preaching church of Martin Luther (since 1512) and Johannes Bugenhagen. Here, in 1521, the mass was celebrated for the first time in German and communion was administered in both kinds (bread and wine).

The Steintor in Wittenberge is the city's oldest landmark, first mentioned in 1297. Rebuilt in its current form after a fire around 1430, it was the northwestern exit of the fortified city. The tower, formerly called "Alter Turm" (Old Tower), served as a prison in the 19th century and has housed a local history museum since 1928.

The harbor originally originated in the context of Wittenberg's industrial boom as a harbor basin. After the industrial facilities in the harbor area were shut down, the Nedwighafen was converted into a modern sports boat harbor. Today, the Nedwighafen serves as a central meeting point for water tourists on the Elbe and is an important part of tourism in the Prignitz. It is centrally located in the city, in close proximity to the Alte Ölmühle.

The Historic Locomotive Shed in Wittenberge is a railway museum located on the grounds of the former railway depot and is one of the most important of its kind in Germany. The first locomotive shed was put into operation here as early as 1846, later followed by a rotunda with a turntable. Today, the museum houses over 40 historic railway vehicles, including steam locomotives, shunting diesel locomotives, electric locomotives, as well as freight and passenger cars. Highlights include the typical rebuilt steam locomotives of the 50.35 series, the small works locomotive "EMMA," and heavy freight locomotives. Visitors can tour Shed II, an impressive roundhouse dating from 1924 with a turntable and water towers, and experience the technology, the smell of coal and oil, and the polished machinery. The museum is run by associations and is a popular destination for technology enthusiasts and railway fans.

The Packhof district in Wittenberge lies between the city center, the train station, and the Elbe River, forming a link to the riverbank. Long characterized by vacancy and urban planning deficiencies, the district is now undergoing targeted development to enhance residential and commercial spaces and improve public areas. Through renovation measures, planning concepts, and citizen participation, the district aims to become an attractive address within the city.

The Old Main Customs Office in Wittenberge dates back to the 19th century and served to monitor the flow of goods across the Elbe River. After years of disuse, it was renovated and converted into modern apartments, while preserving its historical appearance. The building remains a testament to Wittenberge's economic importance in Elbe River trade.

The historic old crane house in Wittenberge was formerly a storage building.

The Historic Engine Shed in Wittenberge is a railway museum located on the site of the former railway depot and is one of the most important of its kind in Germany. The first engine shed was put into operation here in 1846, later followed by a rotunda with a turntable. Today, the museum houses over 40 historic rail vehicles, including steam locomotives, shunting diesel locomotives, electric locomotives, and freight and passenger cars. Highlights include the typical Reko Class 50.35 steam locomotives, the small works locomotive "EMMA," and heavy freight locomotives. Visitors can tour Shed II, an impressive roundhouse dating from 1924 with a turntable and water towers, and experience the technology, the smell of coal and oil, and the polished machinery. The museum is run by local associations and is a popular destination for technology enthusiasts and railway fans.