The largest city in Saxony-Anhalt, Halle is a historically-rich destination that boasts excellent museums and the former birthplace of baroque composer George Frideric Handel. It centers around the vibrant Marktplatz, which is home to the four soaring towers of the 16th-century Marktkirche and the landmark Gothic bell tower, the Roter Turm. Martin Luther preached at the Marktkirche on nu-merous occasions and his death mask is on display in the church museum, as is the bronze 15th-century font that was used for Handel’s baptism.
Halle’s Marktplatz is also home to the elegant Stadthaus that was designed in a mix of Gothic and Renaissance Revival styles. At the center of the square stands a three-meter-tall statue of Handel, with the composer depicted facing towards England where he lived for much of his life and was buried.
Take time to explore the Händel-Haus where the composer was born in 1685, with its museum now detailing not only Handel’s life but also the musical history of the Halle region. Watch an animation of Handel performing in the mini Baroque theatre, then admire the extensive collection of historic musical instruments on display.
You can delve into the region’s archaeological discoveries at the outstanding Halle State Museum of Prehistory. In addition to its displays on mammoths and sa-cred artworks, it’s particularly famed as being home to the 3,600-year-old Nebra sky disk, which is the oldest known representation of the night sky.
Indulge your sweet tooth at the oldest chocolate factory to still be operating in Germany - the Halloren Chocolate Factory. Discover its more than two centuries of chocolate making history at the on-site museum, which includes engaging installations and vintage equipment, then watch chocolate being made at the Pralineum before tasting the finished product.