“Zur Erinnerung an die Studienzeit” It is with these words that the Lunze-Stein Plaque begins its tale. This plaque serves as a reminder of student days from 1973 to 1977. It commemorates the final party of the seminar group 73-10-05 in May 1977. The Lunze-Stein Plaque is made of granite.
Chemnitz is a city with a rich industrial history. It was once known as the “Saxon Manchester” due to its many factories. The city was a hub of innovation. Many inventors found Chemnitz to be the perfect place for their work.
In 1881, Adolf Ferdinand Weinhold created a thermos vessel for laboratory use. This invention was a precursor to the modern thermos flask. In 1932, Chemnitz native Heinrich Gottlob Bertsch invented the first synthetic laundry detergent. It was known as Fewa.
The city was badly damaged during World War II. After the war, it was renamed Karl-Marx-Stadt in 1953. It became part of the German Democratic Republic. The city was rebuilt with prefabricated slab buildings. These buildings provided housing for the working population.
The Karl Marx Monument was unveiled in 1971. This imposing sculpture became the city’s landmark. Locals called it “Nischel”. The monument became a site for dissident demonstrations. It played a role in the political revolution of 1989/90. The city regained its historic name, Chemnitz.
Today, Chemnitz is a technological center. It is home to many innovative companies and start-ups. The city is also known for its architecture. It blends historic and contemporary styles. The Kassberg district features Wilhelmine and art nouveau buildings.
Chemnitz was a European Capital of Culture in 2025. The city used art projects to highlight its industrial history. The slogan was “C the Unseen”. Workshops, festivals, and events took place in former industrial buildings. Artists created installations and sculptures. Chemnitz offers the unexpected and unseen. It invites visitors to discover its makers. It is a place to learn and explore. The Lunze-Stein Plaque is a small piece of this vibrant city. It represents the memories and achievements of a group of students. It stands as a testament to their time in Chemnitz.