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Jena: Where brilliant minds ignited revolutions in thought, science, and society, nestled in Thuringia's green heart.

Three Ways to Rediscover Jena

A first taste of the best stories the city has to offer. Many more tours are waiting for you.

Shattering Expectations: The Jenaer Glas Revolution – Jena Audio-Tour
Tour 01
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Image by indeedous on Wikimedia Commons (Attribution)

Shattering Expectations: The Jenaer Glas Revolution

Discover how a restless chemist's obsession with invisible materials transformed a quiet university town into an industrial powerhouse, revolutionized global science, and completely redesigned the modern kitchen. This is the story of Jenaer Glas—a tale of utopian capitalists, Bauhaus visionaries, and the transparent revolution that changed how we see the world.

7 Stops
135 Min
The Lens of Progress: Jena's Optical Revolution – Jena Audio-Tour
Tour 02
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Pic by Dguendel on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

The Lens of Progress: Jena's Optical Revolution

Discover how a mechanic, a mathematician, and a chemist turned a small German university town into the global epicenter of optical science. This immersive audio journey explores the 'holy trinity' of Carl Zeiss, Ernst Abbe, and Otto Schott. You will uncover not only the scientific breakthroughs that allowed humanity to see the microscopic and the cosmic, but also the radical social reforms that pioneered the 8-hour workday and transformed modern labor. It is a story of glass, genius, and human dignity.

7 Stops
115 Min
Shadows and Light: The Peaceful Revolution of Jena – Jena Audio-Tour
Tour 03

Shadows and Light: The Peaceful Revolution of Jena

Step into the hidden history of a city that lived a double life. Jena was the glittering jewel of East German science, a hub of optical engineering and intellectual prestige. But beneath the surface of this 'scientific city' lay a suffocating web of secret police surveillance. On this immersive walking tour, you will discover how an unlikely alliance of rebellious punks, courageous priests, disillusioned factory workers, and brilliant students managed to break the grip of the Stasi. From hidden youth parishes to the vast squares where tens of thousands finally demanded their freedom, you will walk the exact path of the 1989 Peaceful Revolution. This is a story of psychological warfare, tragic sacrifice, and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit.

7 Stops
113 Min

Discover Jena – Stories Worth Hearing

Red Thread is an iOS and Android app with over 1,500 guided audio tours through cities worldwide - including in Jena.

Jena is more than just a city; it's a crucible of innovation and intellectual fire, where groundbreaking ideas have shaped the world for centuries. Feel the vibrant pulse of a university town that has always looked to the future, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Saale valley.

From the hallowed halls where Schiller taught to the laboratories where Carl Zeiss pioneered optics, Jena’s landscape is interwoven with tales of genius and transformation. Wander through historic alleyways or along the Saale riverbanks, and let our audio tours illuminate the hidden narratives behind iconic landmarks and the spirit that continues to inspire its modern research hubs.

Jena Highlights
  • Birthplace of optical innovation and glass artistry.
  • Echoes of philosophical giants like Goethe and Schiller.
  • A pivotal stage in Germany's Peaceful Revolution.
  • Discover hidden gems, beloved by locals and visitors alike.

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Learn more about Red Thread

Frequently Asked Questions about Jena

General questions about the app, pricing and features are answered in our full FAQ on the main page.

How long does it take to experience Jena's key scientific and historical sites?
Our "Optical Revolution" tour is about 115 minutes, while the "Jenaer Glas-Revolution" takes 135 minutes. Combined, they offer a deep dive into Jena's groundbreaking contributions.
Can I explore the sites of Jena's Golden Age and the Peaceful Revolution in one visit?
Absolutely! The "Golden Age" tour (94 min) and "Schatten und Licht" (113 min) are both centrally located, allowing you to easily connect these pivotal chapters of Jena's past.
Can I create my own tours in Jena?
Yes, with the XL or Unlimited subscription you can use our AI-powered tour creator to build your own personalized tour in Jena on a topic of your choice.
Can I use the Jena tours offline?
Yes, with an XL or Unlimited subscription you can download tours for offline use.
Can I do Jena tours together with friends?
Yes – with Together Mode (from XL plan) the whole group listens in sync on their own devices. Up to 4 people on XL, up to 10 on Unlimited.
In which other cities does Red Thread offer tours?
Further tours are available in nearby cities like Erfurt, Halle, Leipzig, or international destinations like Kraków, Dublin, Florence and many more. All cities can be found here.
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