Leipzig has been an important trading center since the Middle Ages, which is reflected in its architecture and numerous arcades.

Leipzig is inextricably linked to music history. Johann Sebastian Bach served here as St. Thomas's Church Cantor, and the Gewandhaus Orchestra enjoys world renown.

Leipzig played a central role in the Peaceful Revolution of 1989, which led to the fall of the Berlin Wall. St. Nicholas Church was an important starting point for the protests.