Augustusplatz
Augustusplatz is one of the narrated stops on the self-guided Leipzig audio walking tour in Gingerguide. Plan about ~30 min here. Press play at the spot for its two to three minute story, or ask the AI guide anything about it.
- Type square
- Suggested visit ~30 min
- Leipzig Leipzig guide
About Augustusplatz
Augustusplatz, the great square on the east side of the old town of Leipzig, with the Gewandhaus concert hall, the Opera, the University and its new Paulinum, and the Mende Fountain of 1886.
The square has carried its name since 1839, after the first king of Saxony; from 1945 to 1990 it was Karl-Marx-Platz. On its south side stands the Gewandhaus of 1981, home of an orchestra that goes back to 1743; to the north is the Opera of 1960, and to the west the University, founded in 1409, whose church was blown up in 1968.
The square is open at all times; the Gewandhaus and the Opera open for performances and tours. Building works on the tram tracks can close parts of the square for some weeks.
Did you know? The Gewandhaus Orchestra of Leipzig goes back to 1743 and is often considered the oldest civic symphony orchestra in the world; Mendelssohn led it from 1835.
How long should you spend at Augustusplatz?
Plan about ~30 min at Augustusplatz. That is enough to take it in and hear its narrated story; stay longer if it grabs you. The tour is self-guided, so there is no rush.
Is Augustusplatz worth visiting?
Augustusplatz is one of the 13 sights the Gingerguide team researched and narrated in Leipzig, so it earns a place on a self-guided walk. Its story explains why it matters, and you can ask the AI guide anything the story leaves open.
Nearby stops in Leipzig
Day 2 of the Leipzig in 2 days itinerary →
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Hear the story of Augustusplatz
Preview the Leipzig tour free in the Gingerguide app.