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Adam Ries Monument: A Tribute to Mathematical Genius

Discover the legacy of Adam Ries, a mathematical genius, at this monument in Erfurt's historic Altstadt, where his contributions to arithmetic come to life.

The Adam Ries Monument in Erfurt's Altstadt is a tribute to the renowned mathematician Adam Ries, celebrated for his contributions to arithmetic and making math accessible to the masses. The monument features a detailed statue of Ries, set against the backdrop of Erfurt's historic charm. Visitors can admire the statue's intricate details and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The monument is near other attractions, making it easy to incorporate into a broader exploration of Erfurt's rich history and medieval architecture. It's a perfect spot for reflection, photography, and appreciating the city's cultural heritage. The monument also features an abacus depicted on the pavement, offering an interactive element to learn about Ries's work. A visit during the early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for viewing and photography.

A brief summary to Denkmal Adam Ries

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting to view and photograph the monument and surrounding Altstadt architecture.
  • Take a moment to examine the abacus depiction in the pavement, visualizing how Adam Ries taught arithmetic.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Erfurt's Altstadt to explore other historical landmarks like the Krämerbrücke and Erfurt Cathedral.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Erfurt Cathedral (Dom St. Marien), walk south on Domstraße towards Fischmarkt. At Fischmarkt, turn left and walk towards the north side of the square. Continue straight until you reach Michaelisstraße. Turn right onto Michaelisstraße and walk for about 200 meters. The Denkmal Adam Ries will be on your left at Michaelisstraße 48.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by tram, the closest stops are Fischmarkt or Domplatz. From either stop, walk towards Michaelisstraße. From Fischmarkt, head east. From Domplatz, head north. Once on Michaelisstraße, walk until you reach Michaelisstraße 48. A single tram ticket costs approximately €2.30.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Erfurt Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Michaelisstraße 48 will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15.

  • Parking

    Parking is limited directly on Michaelisstraße. Consider parking at Domplatz or Hauptbahnhof multi-story car parks and walking the remaining distance. Hourly parking rates at these garages typically range from €2-€3.

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Nestled in the heart of Erfurt's Altstadt (Old Town), the Adam Ries Monument stands as a lasting tribute to one of Germany's most influential mathematicians, Adam Ries (1492-1559). Ries, also known as Adam Riese, is celebrated for his significant contributions to the field of arithmetic and his dedication to making mathematical knowledge accessible to the common person during the Renaissance. His textbooks, written in German rather than Latin, democratized mathematical learning and played a crucial role in the development of modern calculation methods. The monument itself is a captivating work of art, featuring a bronze bust of Ries mounted on the facade of the Haus zum Schwarzen Horn (Black Horn House) at Michaelisstraße 48. This historic building is significant as the site where some of Ries's arithmetic books were printed in the early 16th century. The bust portrays Ries with a thoughtful expression, capturing the essence of a scholar deeply engaged in his work. A plaque beneath the bust commemorates his life and contributions, noting his time in Erfurt from 1518 to 1522/23 and the printing of his first arithmetic book, "Rechnung auff der linihen" (Calculation on the Lines), here in 1518. Beyond the bust and plaque, the monument also incorporates an interactive element: a depiction of an abacus embedded in the pavement in front of the Haus zum Schwarzen Horn. This stone carving illustrates the structure of a calculating table, with the arrangement of the stones representing the number 1992, commemorating the 500th anniversary of Adam Ries's birth. This feature provides visitors with a tangible connection to Ries's work, allowing them to visualize the methods he used to teach arithmetic. Visiting the Adam Ries Monument offers a unique opportunity to delve into Erfurt's rich intellectual history and appreciate the legacy of a man who transformed the way mathematics was taught and understood. The monument is not only a tribute to Ries's mathematical genius but also a testament to Erfurt's vibrant cultural heritage during the Renaissance. The Altstadt itself provides a picturesque setting for the monument, with its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic landmarks. Visitors can easily combine a visit to the monument with a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, exploring other attractions such as the Krämerbrücke (Merchant's Bridge), the Erfurt Cathedral, and the Old Synagogue. Adam Ries's impact extends far beyond his mathematical contributions. He played a vital role in the development of a standardized German language for mathematical instruction, making it easier for merchants, craftsmen, and ordinary citizens to learn and apply arithmetic in their daily lives. His textbooks were widely used for centuries, shaping the mathematical education of generations of Germans. Ries's emphasis on practical application and clear explanations helped to bridge the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and real-world problems. Erfurt, where Ries spent some of his most productive years, was a thriving center of learning and commerce during the early 16th century. The city's university, founded in 1392, attracted scholars from across Europe, fostering a vibrant intellectual environment. Ries's presence in Erfurt contributed to the city's reputation as a hub of knowledge and innovation. While in Erfurt, Ries not only wrote and published his first arithmetic book but also established a mathematics school, further disseminating his knowledge and methods. The Adam Ries Monument is more than just a static display; it is a living reminder of the power of education and the importance of making knowledge accessible to all. It invites visitors to reflect on the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to simplifying and popularizing mathematics, leaving an indelible mark on German culture and education. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a mathematics aficionado, or simply a traveler seeking to explore Erfurt's cultural treasures, the Adam Ries Monument offers a rewarding and enriching experience. To fully appreciate the monument, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a warm glow on the bronze bust and the surrounding buildings. This creates a particularly enchanting atmosphere, enhancing the beauty of the monument and the surrounding Altstadt. Take some time to examine the details of the bust, the plaque, and the abacus carving, and imagine the bustling city of Erfurt during Adam Ries's time. As you stroll through the Altstadt, be sure to explore the other historic landmarks and cultural attractions that make Erfurt such a captivating destination.

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