Narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, magnificent passages - this is Leipzig's city center. Even in the Middle Ages, there were countless passageways and courtyards around the market square. Leipzig was the scene of illustrious trade fairs: Twice a year, not only traders from all over Europe came to the city, but the hustle and bustle of the fair also attracted jugglers, quacks and charlatans.
With the beginning of the sample fairs at the end of the 19th century, the first fair houses were built. The goods were no longer sold, but exhibited as samples. Elegant trade fair palaces such as the Städtisches Kaufhaus, Specks Hof and the famous Mädlerpassage were soon built.
Experience Leipzig's rise from a market town to a trade fair metropolis. Discover 500 years of trade and change in one of Saxony's most beautiful cities.