Gotha

This town sits where the forested hills meet the open lowlands of central Thuringia. The old center gathers around several churches and wide avenues, while residential neighborhoods and industrial zones fill the outer districts.

A royal estate appeared here in the 8th century, and the settlement grew along the old trade route between Frankfurt and Leipzig. From the 17th century onward, dukes of Saxe-Gotha resided here and shaped both palace and town.

Several fountains and squares downtown show how people meet and spend their free time together during market days or festivals. Small cafés line the streets, and residents often gather near the town hall to chat or enjoy seasonal events.

Visitors reach the place by train from several directions, and local buses link the different neighborhoods. The center is easy to explore on foot, while parking is available on the edges.

A publishing house here produced a reference work on European noble families starting in the 18th century, which became known across many countries. The publication appeared for more than two centuries and served as a genealogical reference for royal houses.

Location: Gotha

Elevation above the sea: 300 m

Shares border with: Nordhausen, Leinatal, Emleben

Website: https://gotha.de

GPS coordinates: 50.94948,10.70144

Latest update: December 15, 2025 01:33