Did Apelstein 42 always stand here, a silent sentinel on Stephaniplatz? No. The Apelstein 42, also known as the Bülowstein, has quite a journey behind it. This obelisk commemorates the Prussian General Friedrich Wilhelm Freiherr von Bülow during the Battle of Leipzig. It marks his position during the storming of Leipzig on October 19, 1813. His Third Prussian Corps of approximately 29,000 soldiers played a crucial role in this pivotal battle. The original Apelstein 42 was erected in 1864 by Leipzig writer Theodor Apel. It was a modest sandstone structure, about 1.5 meters tall, located near today’s Dresdner Straße and the old railway line in Reudnitz. Time and the elements took their toll. The soft sandstone deteriorated. So, before 1900, a new Apelstein 42 was created and placed on the western half of Stephaniplatz. This second obelisk underwent restoration in 1953. However, by the 1980s, this replacement also showed signs of wear. In 1988, the third and current Apelstein 42 was installed on the eastern side of Stephaniplatz. This current Apelstein 42 still bears the inscriptions marking its historical significance. The west side denotes the cardinal direction “W” and “V” for “Verbündete” (allies). This signifies Bülow’s alliance against Napoleon. Interestingly, the inscription on the current Apelstein 42 has an error. It lists the year 1863, rather than the correct year of 1864. The east side of the Apelstein 42 simply displays the cardinal direction “O” for East. The Apelstein 42 stands as a testament to the tumultuous events of 1813, General Bülow’s role, and even the challenges of preserving history itself. The journey of the Apelstein 42, from its humble sandstone beginnings to its current form, reflects the enduring memory of the Battle of Leipzig.
Landgericht Leipzig
Ever wondered where justice is served in Leipzig? Right here, before the Landgericht Leipzig. This isn’t just any courthouse. It