St. Thomas Church

What it is

St. Thomas Church is a Lutheran church in Leipzig, Germany, with origins going back to the 12th century and largely rebuilt in late-Gothic style between 1482 and 1496. Johann Sebastian Bach served here as Thomaskantor, director of music, from 1723 until his death in 1750, also teaching at its school. His remains were later moved here and now rest in the church.

Why it matters

Many of Bach's cantatas and Passions were written for and performed in this church as part of his official duties. The building also connects to other major figures in music history, including Martin Luther, who preached there, and Felix Mendelssohn, honored with a nearby statue. It shows how closely Bach's creative life was tied to his employment and religious duties in Leipzig.

Look closer

• What does it mean that Bach's music was written as part of a job, not purely for personal expression?
• How might the building's long history—through war damage, renovations, and changing uses—affect what we can still see of Bach's own time there?
• Why do you think Bach's remains were later moved into this specific church?