Erfurt, Germany

Saturday marked the start of our weekend trip to Erfurt by ICE train. As we exited the Bahnhof, students immediately noticed the medieval architecture and noted the differences between Berlin and the smaller town of Erfurt. The capital of Thuringia, Erfurt exudes a blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy, creating a unique atmosphere that is both inviting and enchanting. Its well-preserved old town, with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the iconic Krämerbrücke bridge, offers a picturesque glimpse into the past.

A guide led the students through the old city, describing its history and significance before WWII and its time as part of the German Democratic Republic (GDR), behind the wall that separated East from West. The town's bustling squares, like Domplatz, are lively hubs where locals and visitors gather to enjoy cafes, markets, and festivals. Students noted the serenity in the quieter areas and the peaceful retreats amid the urban bustle. They were pleasantly surprised by the cleanliness of the city and the abundance of cafes and gelato shops. Some even ventured across the river to take photos with the iconic medieval houses as the locals do.

In the evening, the entire CIEE: Engineering and Innovation program shared yet another cultural experience in Erfurt at the Wirtshaus Christoffel medieval restaurant. This establishment has its own dynamic history. In the 15th century, it started a brewhouse. Later on, between 1850-1945 it changed to a cloth dyeing factory and cloth merchant. Thereafter, from 1945-1970, it became an establishment for vegetable and fruit trading. Astonishingly enough from 1975-1983, it was a dry-cleaning business. Then, it was used as a residential building in 1990. Finally, in 1994 it became a tavern. There the students indulged in local cuisine for a main entree with an array of options as well as had the opportunity to taste a variety of desserts, both compliments of CIEE. 

To end our excursion in Erfurt, Sunday was a busy day, with students choosing to visit either the synagogue or the medieval fortress. Both groups were deeply interested in the rich history surrounding them. Erfurt's historical depth, cultural diversity, and welcoming ambiance made it a captivating experience for all.