Towering proudly high above the rooftops of Altenburg's old town - the Rote Spitzen. Majestic and respectful, whoever stands in front of them and dares to look up in awe. Former canons' monastery and today the landmark of the city.

Welcome to the information center, which opened in 2013. Here, visitors can experience a journey back in time to the Middle Ages and gain an insight into the structure of the "Rote Spitzen" using modern technology. Visitors can walk through the archaeological excavation, come across previously hidden features and have the chance to see the Romanesque collegiate church in its entirety, even if only in the area of the foundations.

In the chapel of the south tower, you can see a wall painting in an apse: the Mother of God sitting with Christ in a mandorla, being crowned by her son. This form of the crowning of the Virgin Mary is considered a unique depiction north of the Alps. For a long time, it was completely walled up and therefore hidden from view.

Between the southern and northern towers is a barrel-vaulted vestibule, in which the triple-stepped arched portal with inset columns attracts attention. The design element here is the change of material from white sandstone to red brick. The barrel vault was once painted with depictions of saints and biblical scenes rich in figures. Remains of this were rediscovered during building research.

In the north tower, visitors are encouraged to Monastery puzzle "History you can touch" literally. A number of interactive building blocks bring the Altenburg Augustinian canons' monastery to life virtually. The exact position of the cloister courtyard, library and other buildings in relation to the collegiate church becomes visible.

A presentation in the rooms on the upper floor focuses on the Staufer dynasty, the person of Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa, the building history of the monastery and the religious clergy who once worked here.

The archaeological excavation areas clearly show the original structure of the foundations and rising masonry, among other things, and provide insights into later secular conversions.

Opening hours and admission prices at a glance:

Friday to Sunday: 12 to 16.30 hrs
Guided tours: 11 am

Admission: 5 EUR / 3 EUR (reduced)
Combined ticket Rote Spitzen/Residenzschloss: 10 EUR / 8 EUR (reduced)
Guided tour: 3 EUR plus admission