Why Landsberg am Lech
Landsberg am Lech is a district capital located in southwestern Bavaria, Germany. Positioned approximately 65 kilometers west of Munich and 35 kilometers south of Augsburg, it serves as the central hub of the Lechrain region along the border of Swabia and Bavaria. The town lies along the scenic Romantic Road route and is situated where an ancient salt transport path traditionally crossed the River Lech.
Geographically, the town is split into distinct sectors. The historic old town center sits between the River Lech and a high eastern riverbank. Newer districts expanding to the west of the river form the largest section of modern Landsberg, while the eastern bank features developments dating back to the early 19th century. The municipality also encompasses several surrounding hamlets and former independent boroughs, such as Erpfting and Pitzling.
Landsberg originated around Castrum Landespurch, a castle commissioned by Duke Henry the Lion to safeguard the river bridge. Town rights were granted in the 13th century, and despite being destroyed by a fire in 1315, the community rebuilt and grew wealthy through levying salt duties starting in 1320 and river taxes added in 1419. Cultural artifacts from its history include the Landsberg Virgin and Child sculpture created by Hans Multscher in 1437.
The town's 20th-century history features significant developments. Adolf Hitler was imprisoned in Landsberg in 1924, where he produced his manifesto. During World War II, the area contained the Kaufering concentration camp complex. Following liberation by U.S. forces in April 1945, the site served as a displaced persons camp for Jewish refugees until 1950, as well as an execution venue for war criminals. Today, historical memory is maintained at sites like the European Holocaust Memorial, established on the grounds of the former Kaufering VII camp.
For visitors exploring the region, Landsberg am Lech is accessible via public rail transit, served by two local train stations: Landsberg (Lech) and Landsberg (Lech) Schule.
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