Thomaskirche

Bach's church — the composer worked and is buried here, and the Thomanerchor still performs his music weekly

The Thomaskirche is where Johann Sebastian Bach worked as Thomaskantor from 1723 until his death in 1750. He composed much of his greatest sacred music here, directed the Thomanerchor (Thomas Boys Choir), and is buried beneath the chancel. The choir, founded in 1212, is one of the oldest in the world and still performs Bach's music every Friday and Saturday — check the website for the current schedule, as attending a Motette is one of Leipzig's unmissable experiences.

The church itself is a Gothic hall church from the 15th century, unassuming from the outside but dignified within. The Bach memorial statue stands in front of the south door. Inside, look for the elaborate carved font and the 1908 stained glass windows by the Munich school. The Bachmuseum (Bach Museum) sits directly opposite the church — the two together make a satisfying morning visit.

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A story
Bach spent the last 27 years of his life here as Thomaskantor, responsible for composing and directing music for the city's churches. He wrote over 150 cantatas during this period and was buried beneath the chancel in 1750. When the church was rebuilt in the 19th century his remains were moved — twice — before finally resting in a bronze sarcophagus before the high altar.