Germany, Eisenach

Eisenach is a city in Thuringia, Germany. It is situated between the northern foothills of the Thuringian Forest and the Hainich National Park. Population: 43,915 (2004).

History

The history of Eisenach is linked with the Wartburg castle, which was built according to legend in 1067. There were at least three settlements below the castle, that merged to a common city in the second half of the 12th century.

Eisenach was the place where Martin Luther lived as a child, although he was not born there, and later for his receiving protection by Frederick the Wise after having been pursued for his religious views.

The town is famous as the birthplace of Johann Sebastian Bach as well.

The Social Democratic Party of Germany was founded in 1869 in Eisenach.

Economy

Automobile manufacturing is an important part of Eisenach economy:

Opel, as part of the overseas operations of General Motors Corporation built an entirely new plant in the northwest of the town, after the Wartburg cars plant had ceased operations in 1989.

BMW manufactures tools, and Bosch has a plant in the town.