Even though it goes back such a long way, the history of Saxony-Anhalt seems to have only just begun in earnest. Wherever people are connecting with their history, new things are developing. Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg has gathered a multitude of scientific and technical institutions around it, and the Centre for Research into European Enlightenment is keeping Halle’s intellectual and academic tradition alive. Telemann is honoured in Magdeburg, Bach in Köthen, Schütz in Weissenfels and Handel in Halle – not forgetting the clever Prince Franz and his Wörlitzer Garden Kingdom, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This all gives people courage.

The historically based features of Saxony-Anhalt should not be underestimated – they can give the state cohesion and identity. From Halberstadt Cathedral to Merseberg, Naumburg or Zeitz, from Halle to the Prussian-influenced Altmark to Stendal or Havelberg – it is exciting to move around this cultural landscape, in the heart of which lies precious Anhalt – as the people of Dessau, Köthen and Bernburg are well aware.

Despite all its problems, Saxony-Anhalt is rich. Alongside all its art and cultural treasures, the theatres and museums – including their examples of modernity – it has two assets that can be only increased by active and frequent use: the heritage of tolerance and an awareness of the threat to it that is posed by totalitarian ideas. This might not fill your stomach, but it can certainly make you wiser.