“Crucified Lord Jesus Christ have pity with me.” Those words echo through time at this very spot. This is the Luthermarter. It stands as a silent witness to both faith and suffering in Burgebrach.
The Luthermarter is more than just a wayside shrine. It is a testament to the tumultuous times of the Reformation and beyond. Its story intertwines with religious fervor, public executions, and local legends.
This Gothic Marter is not directly related to Martin Luther. Despite its name, there’s no solid proof Luther ever preached here. Legend says he may have passed through on his way to Heidelberg. Some even claim to see his image on the shaft. This led to some people battering the image with stones. The damage makes it unrecognisable today.
Let’s delve into the Luthermarter’s physical features. The octagonal shaft bears the year 1522. The lantern dates back to 1512. Both front and back of the lantern showcase a Crucifixion scene. The edges feature Emperor Heinrich and Empress Kunigunde.
But there is another, more sinister story about this location. The local historical inscription tells of Hans Leisentritt’s last moments. He was a condemned man. On his final day in September, Hans knelt before this very Marter. His sentence was read aloud. He then stumbled towards the gallows on the nearby Galgenberg. No one offered help. The hangman performed his grim duty.
In 1976, Hanns Leitherer restored the Luthermarter. The municipality added a sandstone plaque. It bears both Leitherer’s name and the name Luthermarter. This act acknowledges the shrine’s historical significance.
Alfred Seel described this memorial in 1968. He noted its height of 220 cm and the lantern’s width of 60 cm. The Luthermarter stands outside Burgebrach’s former gate fortifications. It stands on a lobe of the fairgrounds, field number 728.
So, what makes this Luthermarter so special? It embodies faith, legend, and local history. It reminds us of a time when religion shaped lives and justice was harsh. Take a moment. Reflect on the stories etched into this ancient stone. Consider the echoes of prayers and the weight of history that linger here.