Leica World: Your Starting Point for Journeys of Discovery
Leitz Park is unique in the world. Not only are Leica enthusiasts coming together here, but also photography fans and guests from all over the world. Between spectacular architecture, a place of experience and inspiration has been created here, which makes it possible to experience the Leica brand with all its facets and invites you to become part of this brand world.
Here at Leica World in Leitz Park you can experience history at first hand. But the optics city of Wetzlar has something to offer for everyone, too: from a stroll between the impressive half-timbered houses of the old town to numerous adventure activities in the natural surroundings of Wetzlar.
The historic old town of Wetzlar originated in the early Middle Ages and formed the town centre of the former imperial city. In it, carefully restored half-timbered houses create a charming contrast to beautiful Baroque buildings from the Imperial Chamber Court period. The city of Wetzlar regularly offers guided tours of the old town and has summarised information for a tour of the old town on its website.
City of Wetzlar
At the foot of Wetzlar's old town, the Alte Lahnbrücke (Old Lahn Bridge) crosses the river. The stone and seven-arched bridge over the Lahn and the Lahn Island was built in the 13th century, making it one of the oldest bridges still standing in Hesse! In the summer months, the beer garden on the Lahn invites you to enjoy a glass of wine with a picturesque view of the Old Lahn Bridge and the Hospital Church.
Away from the old town and somewhat hidden behind high walls lies the old cemetery of Wetzlar. In 1928, in addition to an expressionist chapel, cascades were also built here as a water feature with 6 basins, which - initially forgotten - have been running again since 2019. Many well-known Wetzlar residents from earlier days also rest here in the cemetery. Among them are Leica originals such as Ernst Leitz, Oskar Barnack and Max Bereck.
Wetzlar is the inspiration for one of the most tragic love stories of all time. It was here that the 23-year-old Johann Wolfgang von Goethe fell in love unhappily with Charlotte Buff, who later inspired him to create the main character in his first novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther". The "Lottehaus" is dedicated to the memory of the young woman, and the city of Wetzlar also offers numerous guided tours and activities related to Goethe's time in Wetzlar.
City of Wetzlar
Wetzlar is located in the heart of the Lahn Valley and is particularly well suited as a starting point for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Hiking, cycling, climbing, paddling - the surroundings around Wetzlar offer options for every taste! Discover secluded hiking routes and picturesque castles or let yourself be captivated by nature along the Lahn. Here you will find a range of excursion tips for the whole family.
City of Wetzlar
Still haven't had enough of Wetzlar? Then experience the multifaceted history of the city in one or more of the city's six museums. These include the City Museum, the Lottehaus, the Jerusalemhaus, the Lemmers-Danforth Collection in Palais Papius, the Imperial Chamber Court Museum and the Viseum, House of Optics and Precision Mechanics. More information on the individual museums can be found on the website of the city of Wetzlar.
To the museums
