Project Freedom - Memmingen 1525

March 1525 - the peasants revolt and Memmingen becomes the centre of attention in history: the delegates of the Upper Swabian peasants gather in the Kramerzunftstube, discuss their next steps and form a "Christian Association". Immediately after the meeting, the "Twelve Articles", the most important document of the Peasants' War, began its triumphal march. The demands formulated in it were quite something, as the peasants demanded nothing less than "that we are and want to be free" - an unheard-of event! The "Twelve Articles" quickly became a kind of 'bestseller' with a huge circulation. Today they are regarded as one of the earliest demands for civil liberties in Europe.
To commemorate the 500th anniversary, the House of Bavarian History and the city of Memmingen are organising a Bavarian exhibition from 16 March to 19 October 2025, in which the history of the "Twelve Articles" will be illuminated using exhibits, exciting stagings, media and hands-on stations. You will immerse yourself in the seemingly strange world of the early 16th century, but also encounter elements that seem thoroughly modern - especially when it comes to the question of freedom. After all, it is just as intensely debated today as it was 500 years ago.
The exhibition is on display in the Dietrich Bonhoeffer House. The former guild parlour of the Kramerzunfthaus will also be included as a historically authentic location. The exhibition project is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Last edited on 20.10.2025