Martin Luther

Born: 1483 | Died: 1546

Reformer

Born in Eisleben in the German kingdom of Saxony in 1483, Martin Luther became one of the most important religious leaders in history igniting the Protestant Reformation. Through his studies, Luther became convinced that many of the practices of the Catholic Church were not in accordance with the Scriptures or simply, should be reformed.

In October 1517, Luther sent his famous 95 theses against the misuse of indulgences to Cardinal Albrecht of Mainz and it is said that he also posted them on the Castle Church doors in Wittenberg. In the theses, he severely critiqued, inter alia, the sale of indulgences, a pardon of the temporal punishment for particular sins against the Catholic Church.

Four years later, Luther permanently severed his ties with the Catholic Church, and he was excommunicated by Pope Leo X; and the emperor declared Luther an outlaw at which point, supporters abducted Luther to the castle known as the Wartburg which is close to Eisenach and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. While there he translated the Bible, making it possible for common people to read it. Luther also wrote several hymns, the most famous of which is “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.“

Luther died in Eisleben. He is buried underneath the pulpit at the Castle Church in Wittenberg. Thousands visit the places where Luther lived and preached every year.

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