April 2007
Aschaffenburg in 1541
Lucas Cranach was one of the most prolific Renaissance painters, due largely to the significance of his patron: Cardinal Albrecht of Brandenbrug was archbishop of Mainz, Magdeburg, and Halberstadt, and the most powerful church official in the region. Albrecht commissioned Cranach to complete several works for his church in Halle, constituting the largest painting series in the history of German art. Among these is the colossal Magdalenen Altar. Albrecht brought many of these paintings with him when he was forced to flee to Aschaffenburg during the Reformation. Now, the city presents a unique and multifaceted exhibition exploring Albrecht, Cranach, and Aschaffenburg in 1541. Three separate sites will host sections of the exhibition, called “Cranach in Exile: Aschaffenburg in 1540.” Cranach’s impressive paintings are on display in the Jesuit church. The St. Peter and Alexander Monastery will display biographical information about Albrecht, and the Staatsgalerie of Schloss Johannisburg presents contextual materials exploring the atmosphere of Reformation Germany. An € 8 ticket price covers entry to all three locations, which are in walking distance of each other—an opportunity to tour the quaint town. The exhibition is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 6 pm, until June 3. Aschaffenburg is a 2.5-hour train ride from Munich. A € 19-Euro BayernTicket will cover your transportation
to and within the city.
