Permanent Exhibitions – Leipzig

Forum of Contemporary History in Leipzig

The Forum of Contemporary History in Leipzig is a place of living remembrance. It is an exhibition, documentation and information centre devoted to the history of division and unity, dictatorship and resistance in the Soviet Occupied Zone and its successor the German Democratic Republic (GDR or East Germany). This includes in particular the history of the repressive system of the SED, of civil disobedience and of the Peaceful Revolution of 1989. A focal point is the moral courage shown under the conditions of dictatorship.

The modern, welcoming museum in the heart of Leipzig offers a forum for actively addressing German history, past and present. It provides space for encounters between the generations and contributes to the mutual understanding of the experiences, burdens and achievements of the people in East and West Germany.

The permanent exhibition shows the Communist SED regime alternating between enticement and force, consent and repression. Political, economic, cultural and everyday historical interrelationships are graphically presented. Some 3.200 exhibits – objects, documents, photos and multimedia resources – are showcased in a visitor-focused exhibition format inviting you to explore the history of Germany during the era of division and the years following reunification. Temporary exhibitions offer opportunity for in-depth exploration of various themes.

Old Town Hall

The Altes Rathaus, a Renaissance building with its baroque tower, dominates the Marktplatz. From the remains of old prison cells in the cellar, via the historical rooms on the main floor, up to the tower sphere and the weather vane, the building is a compendium of the history of the city and itself the most valuable part of the museum.

The first part of the permanent exhibition comprises the time from the Stone Age to the Battle of Leipzig. In the old council chamber, which is considered the most beautiful room in Leipzig, parts of the original furnishing and silverware are on display, and it was here that Johann Sebastian Bach signed his employment contract as Cantor at St. Thomas School and Director of Music in 1723. For visitors more interested in music, the world-famous portrait of the composer and some other selected items are collected. In addition to the glory days of the baroque period, the museum also depicts war and peace in Leipzig with sieges and sackings as well as the sufferings of the inhabitants. In the historical vaults with their prison cells, old torture instruments and execution devices show how criminal law used to be applied.

The second part of the permanent exhibition which covers the time period from the industrialization to the present is planned to be established on the second floor. It will be opened at the 11th of December 2011. The development of Leipzig will be presented in eight historical time periods; moreover detailed information will be provided on special topics that have shaped the city: trade fair, book-trade, sports and music.