LEIPZIG AND TRADE FAIRS

Ancient trade market in Leipzig

Already the first document, from about 1165, which certifies Leipzig as a town, declares also the right to hold markets. Provided with special privileges - 1497 and 1507 by the emperor Maximilian I - the town developed to an important East-West trading centre, often called the 'Mother of all Trade Fairs'. In the 18th century Leipzig became the most important exhibition centre in Germany.

1895 the trade fair was replaced by a sample fair (Mustermesse - MM), which was hold twice a year, in spring and autumn, until 1991 at the historical exhibition houses (Messehäuser) in the centre of town and at different exhibition halls, pavilions and open areas of the 'Old Fair' south of the centre.

In 1996 the 'New Fair of Leipzig' was opened in the north of the town, with five modern exhibition halls and a congress centre, meanwhile a location for many important international fairs, congresses and specialist conferences throughout the whole year.