On July 2, 1505, the young Martin Luther experienced an event that would change his life. Out of the newly graduated “Magister” (holder of a master’s degree), ready to start his studies in law, an Augustinian monk by the name of Brother Martin was born.
In 1917, a "Lutherstein" (Luther Stone Monument) was erected at the foot of the “Galgenhügel” (Gallows Hill), which serves to remind visitors of the turning point in the life of the young Martin Luther. It bears the inscription: “Hallowed Ground – Turning point of the Reformation. In one bolt of lightening from heaven, the young Luther was shown the way.”
In 1505 on a return trip back to Erfurt after visiting his parents in Mansfeld, a young Martin Luther was caught in a terrible thunderstorm near Stotternheim. Lightening struck close by, throwing him to the ground. In fear for his life, he called out: “Help me, St. Anne, and I will become a monk!”
After this experience, he dropped out law school – much to the chagrin of his father – and he entered the Augustinian monastery in Erfurt, first as a guest, on July 17, 1505.
Today, there is a stone monument (“Lutherstein”) at the foot of the “Galgenhügel” (Gallows Hill) dedicated to what happened to Luther that day. A green area with benches and a place to find cover invites travelers to stop and visit. The parking lot is also suitable for busses.
Getting there: Tram line 5 to “Grubenstraße”, then with 30, 31 bus line to the stop “Bergfeldstraße”.
