Perhaps Probstheida’s name sounds familiar. It is a district in the southeast of Leipzig with a rich history. Probstheida was once a village. It has transformed into a vital part of Leipzig.
Probstheida’s story begins in the late 12th century. Flemish settlers founded it as a street village. It was initially known as Heida. In 1213, Margrave Dietrich von Meißen gave part of the area to the Leipziger Augustiner-Chorherrenstift. This led to the addition of “Probst” to its name. The name Probstheida was documented from 1438.
Probstheida became a key location during the Battle of the Nations in October 1813. French troops held a crucial position here. Prussian-Russian forces stormed the village repeatedly. They suffered heavy losses. The French soldiers set fire to the already devastated village as they retreated.
After the battle, Probstheida rebuilt itself. The Immanuelkirche Probstheida was reconsecrated in 1818. The church received bells in 1821. An organ was added in 1825. By 1840, 18 buildings had been restored.
Probstheida gradually changed as facilities for Leipzig were established on its land. Construction of the waterworks began in 1865. The water tower was erected in 1907. The Südfriedhof opened in 1886. It became one of Germany’s largest cemeteries. Construction of the Völkerschlachtdenkmal started in 1898. It also stood on Probstheida land.
Around 1900, Probstheida saw an increase in small businesses. These included gardeners, florists, stonemasons, and sculptors. Cigar makers and printers were also present. Lenin had the first issue of the revolutionary newspaper Iskra printed here in 1900.
Probstheida officially became part of Leipzig on January 1, 1910. The council of Probstheida requested incorporation on September 13, 1909. At the time of incorporation, Probstheida had 2,090 residents.
After World War I, Probstheida experienced significant construction. A large residential complex was built south of the old village center. It was designed by architect Carl James Bühring.
The VfB Leipzig, a three-time German football champion, built the Probstheidaer Stadion from 1920 to 1922. It was Germany’s largest club-owned stadium at the time. In 1949, the stadium was renamed Bruno-Plache-Stadion. Today, the 1. FC Lokomotive Leipzig plays here.
Between 1966 and 1968, a ten-story apartment building was constructed. Located on Lene-Voigt-Straße, it is Germany’s longest continuously walkable building. Locals call it “Lange Lene.”
Since reunification, Probstheida has seen extensive construction. New residential areas with single and multi-family houses have emerged. Probstheida has also become an important hospital location. It is home to the Herzzentrum, a clinic for addiction treatment, and the Parkkrankenhaus.
In 2011, a memorial site was created. It commemorates the destruction of the University Church of St. Pauli. The rubble from the demolished church was dumped in the Etzoldsche Sandgrube.
Today, Probstheida is a vibrant district. It blends historical significance with modern developments. As you explore Probstheida, remember its transformation. From a small village to a key part of Leipzig, its story is etched in every street.