Dilment campaign started: Historical Luther cowl needs 12,000 euros!

Dilment campaign started: Historical Luther cowl needs 12,000 euros!

The historical luther cowl from the 16th century, an important symbol for the time of Martin Luther, is to be restored. This valuable cowl can currently be admired in the special exhibition "Literally Luther. Facets of a Reformer" in the Augusteum Wittenberg. In order to obtain the necessary financial resources for the restoration, a fundraising campaign has now been launched. The aim is to collect around 12,000 euros by the end of 2026 so that the cowl can shine in new splendor.

The initiators of the fundraising campaign, the circle of friends of the Luther Museums and the Rotary Club of Lutherstadt Wittenberg, see the project as particularly valuable. Sigrid Bias-Engels, the chair of the Freundeskreis, describes the cowl as the highlight of each exhibition in the Luther Museums. It emphasizes that the historical and cultural value of the cowl is enormous and that it is one of the most popular objects among visitors. Rando Gießmann, President of the Rotary Club, emphasizes the importance of this cooperation to increase attention to the city of Wittenberg.

A look at the cowl

The over 500 year old cowl consists of woolen fabric, which was worn in the time of Martin Luther's Reformation. However, the fabric has now become fragile and thin. The restorers have already started with a detailed protocol about the condition of the cowl in order to determine the necessary steps for saving this historical textile. It is also planned to make a figurine that should help to optimally distribute the weight of the cowl and thus optimize the presentation.

An important goal of the restoration is to secure the material without making the cowl appear unnatural as new. This careful approach is intended to ensure that the cultural heir will continue to be accessible to future generations. After completing the renovation work at the Lutherhaus, the restored cowl in 2027 will be the first object of the new permanent exhibition and play a central role in visitor reception, according to the organizers.

The fundraising campaign has already started and the circle of friends hopes to master the challenge with the Rotary Club and get the necessary money together by the end of 2026. The love of history and appreciation for Luther's legacy mobilize many people who are willing to make a contribution. Have a look and support this important cultural initiative!

Further information about the fundraising campaign can be found on Tag24 and MDR .