Gera

Gera is a regional center in Thuringia, Germany, located in the Weiße Elster valley at 205 meters elevation. Hills and forests of the East Thuringian landscape surround the town and shape its setting.

A document from 995 mentions the settlement for the first time and marks the beginning of its recorded history. The town later became the main residence of the House of Reuss and remained the capital of the Principality of Reuss-Gera until 1918.

The city museum preserves works by Otto Dix, who was born here and whose expressionist paintings capture scenes from the early 20th century. Visitors can also discover medieval altars and sculptures from the region in the art collection.

The main train station links the town to Leipzig, Berlin and Munich through regular trains, offering travelers several options for day trips. Pedestrians can reach the historic center easily, as most sights lie close together.

The Renaissance town hall ranks among the largest structures of its kind in the country and reflects the economic power the town gained through textile production. Its facade shows elaborate stonework that visitors can examine up close.

Location: Thuringia

Elevation above the sea: 205 m

Part of: Central German Metropolitan Region

Shares border with: Greiz, Saale-Holzland-Kreis, Burgenlandkreis

Website: https://gera.de

GPS coordinates: 50.87818,12.08242

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:02