Dessau
Dessau is a city located in the federal state of Saxony-Anhalt in Germany. Here are some key points about this city:
History
- Dessau was first mentioned in historical records in 949 when Emperor Otto I established a bishopric there, which later moved to Merseburg.
- In the 17th century, the city suffered from the Thirty Years' War, but it was rebuilt and expanded during the subsequent Baroque period.
- The city gained fame in the 20th century due to the establishment of the Bauhaus school of design in 1919 by Walter Gropius. The Bauhaus was a radical new approach to modernism in architecture, crafts, and the arts, and its influence is still felt today.
- During World War II, Dessau was heavily bombed, particularly on March 7, 1945, when it was targeted due to its strategic location and the presence of factories supporting the war effort.
Culture and Architecture
- The Bauhaus building, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the city's most famous landmarks. It was the center for innovative design and education.
- Dessau is also known for its Wörlitzer Park, an English landscape garden which was the first of its kind on the European continent. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The Johanneskirche (St. John's Church) is a notable Gothic church in the city, with parts dating back to the 14th century.
Economy
- Historically, Dessau has been a center for metalworking, particularly in the production of aircraft engines and locomotives. Post-war, the city struggled with economic transition but has been slowly recovering with diverse industries.
- Today, Dessau has a mix of industrial, service, and educational sectors. The Anhalt University of Applied Sciences plays a significant role in the local economy, offering courses in design, engineering, and management.
Notable Figures
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