Memmingen celebrates 500 years of twelve articles”: Freedom in focus!

Memmingen celebrates 500 years of twelve articles”: Freedom in focus!

An exciting anniversary is imminent! In 2025, the city of Memmingen became the scene of a spectacular Bavarian exhibition, which takes place from March 16 to October 19. On the occasion of the 500th commemoration of the "twelve articles", the history of these significant demands for freedom and human rights comes alive. Mayor Jan Rothenbacher emphasizes the topicality of these topics: "The demand for fundamental freedom and human rights is still very topical today."

The exhibition is presented in the Dietrich-Bonhoeffer House and in the historical guild room of the Kramerzunft. Visitors can look forward to a captivating journey into the world of the 16th century, which is enriched by exhibits, exciting productions and interactive stations. Dr. Rainhard Riepertinger, deputy director of the House of Bavarian History, emphasized the importance of the Peasant War of 1525: "The twelve articles were an epochal document that was known in many uprising regions and emphasizes Memmingen as the core location of these events."

a feast of freedom

The anniversary year is celebrated with a variety of events. On March 7, 2025, the journey through time into 1525 begins with an impressive multimedia staging at the Kramer guild. From March 14th to 16th, the Max-Kolbe house will become a stage for a lay theater game that brings history alive. A colorful supporting program with exhibitions, lectures and readings will accompany the celebrations, including the Freedom Table on May 25th, in which the city society is to be discussed.

Summer promises exciting events with music, cinema and a spectacular theater and circus spectacle "Uffrur! ... on the road" on July 11, 2025. The crowning glory is the awarding of the Memmingen Freedom Prize 1525 on October 3, 2025. Memmingen will not only celebrate the story, but also focus on the values ​​of freedom and coexistence!