Johann Sebastian Bach marks the undisputed highlight in Mühlhausen's rich musical history. In June 1707, at the age of just 22, he took up his post as organist at the Divi Blasii Church in Mühlhausen.

His time from 1707 to 1708 undoubtedly counts as his “early mastery period.” Cantatas composed in Mühlhausen include “Christ lag in Todesbanden” (BWV 4), “Aus der Tiefe rufe ich, Herr, zu dir” (BWV 131), and “Actus tragicus” (BWV 106). His most famous Mühlhausen cantata, the council change cantata “Gott ist mein König” (BWV 71), was even printed at the instigation of the Mühlhausen council, which was very unusual for that time.

The work and life of Johann Sebastian Bach during his time in Mühlhausen is the subject of the guided tour: “In the footsteps of Johann Sebastian Bach” on March 21, 2026, the 341st birthday of the musician. Participants will learn interesting facts about a period in the life of the musician, who was described as rebellious, stubborn, and capricious.