Monumental, steeped in history and impossible to miss: in this episode of ’Welcome to Leipzig’, Klara and Axel head up one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Together with Dr Crawford Matthews, curator of the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, they delve into the momentous events of 1813 in Leipzig and explore the eventful history of this monument, which still commemorates a war that proved decisive for all of Europe. Which virtues were considered desirable in 1813? How were they reinterpreted and instrumentalised in the eras that followed? What values does the monument represent for us today, and how can we experience the ’Völki’ anew? And just how many steps does the Battle of the Nations Monument actually have? Join us to find out in this episode!

This podcast episode is co-financed from tax revenues on the basis of the budget agreed by the Members of the State Parliament of Saxony.

More information:

Website of the Monument to the Battle of the Nations & FORUM 1813

South Cemetery

Blog: A walk through the South Cemetery in Leipzig

Russian Memorial Church

Dölitz Gatehouse with tin figure museum

Leipzig is a city of water, with around 180 kilometres of rivers flowing through it and beautiful lakes like Lake Cospuden. The city’s water network is perfect for exploring Leipzig by boat. But where to start? Leipzig city harbor (Stadthafen Leipzig) is the central hub, offering canoe and motorboat tours, and is besides that an event location with restaurant and cafe. Opened in June 2026, it’s a must-visit. In this episode, Axel and new podcast host Klara explore how to plan an all-inclusive canoe tour to Lake Cospuden, find the most scenic water spots, and discover the best locations and activities at the Lake.

More information:
Leipzig city harbor
Blüthner wine café
Lake Cospuden
More lakes around Leipzig
Observation tower ‘Bistumshöhe‘
Pier 1 on Lake Cospuden
Lake Sauna
Family amusement park BELANTIS

This podcast episode is co-financed from tax revenues on the basis of the budget agreed by the Members of the State Parliament of Saxony.

According to legend, Dr. Faust rode out of Auerbach’s wine bar on a barrel. Whether or not this really took place is open to interpretation. What is certain, however, is that the scene in Goethe’s ’Faust’ takes place in the famous wine bar and restaurant in Leipzig, which has been frequently visited ever since. The wine cellar dates back to the 15th century and was enlarged over the following years. But who was Auerbach? And why was this wine bar so popular among students back then? Axel and Aileen take you underground to take a closer look at this legendary place. Find out more in this episode of Welcome to Leipzig, the podcast for your trip to Leipzig.

Auerbach’s Cellar Leipzig
500 years of Auerbach’s Cellar
Delicious Leipzig – Traditional Cuisine