The oldest secular monument in the most historical part of Erfurt, the Merchants' Bridge was initially made out of wood before being rebuilt in stone in 1325. It is a footbridge connecting Benediktplatz square in the old town centre with Wenigemarkt. On its six arches stand 62 small half-timbered houses with shops and living quarters for the merchants who sold pepper, sugar, saffron and a range of other goods. Today it is home to stores selling arts and crafts, antiques, souvenirs and much more. Unique in Germany, the Merchants' Bridge is also the longest bridge in Europe to have houses lining both its sides.

The largest of Erfurt's surviving abbeys is that of the Augustinian hermits which was built in 1277. It is an impressive example of medieval monastic architecture and is closely linked with the name of Martin Luther, who lived here as a monk. The Luther exhibition and Luther's room can be viewed on a guided tour of the abbey. The library, which has 60,000 volumes, is one of Germany's most important collections of ecclesiastical literature. Among the 13,000 manuscripts and prints dating from before 1850, the incunabula (early printed documents), the Reformation writings and the Luther editions deserve a special mention. Link zu Spirituelles Reisen -> Luther) Read more (/link)

The architectural monuments built by Erfurt's Jewish community in the Middle Ages are part of the town's great historical heritage. This includes the almost completely preserved Old Synagogue whose earliest traces date back to 1094 and the mikveh Jewish ritual bath from around 1250, as well as one of the largest and most important collections of ancient Jewish treasures and authentic contemporary manuscripts. Of the few remaining Jewish religious buildings from the Middle Ages, the Old Synagogue is not only the oldest, but also the best-preserved example in central Europe.