Mädler-Passage Shopping Complex, Leipzig

The Madler Passage is an L-shaped shopping arcade. The arcade opens at Grimaische Street at one end and onto Neumarkt at the other. There is another entrance at Peter Street since the Industrial Fair House Market was built in 1965. This entrance also connects to Kings House Passage.

In 1525, Stromer von Auerbach, rector of Leipzig University, opened a wine bar, Auerbach's Cellar (Auerbachs Keller). The wine cellar operation prospered, and the professor decided to build an exhibition hall in the same place named Auberbach's Courtyard (Auerbachs Hof). That was a 6,000-square-meter space for porcelain, ceramics, and earthenware.

Anton Madler acquired Auerbach's Courtyard in 1912. He intended to redevelop and modernize with the installation of his building. There was a public outcry to preserve Auerbach's Cellar. Madler then incorporated the traditional cellar into his reconstruction. The main arcade entrance on Grimmaische Street is guarded by two female figures; one holding grapes and the other a ceramic vase.

The Madler Passage is one of Europe’s most famous shopping arcades, with a vast collection of exclusive stores with select products. Lining the arcade are boutiques, specialist stores, restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are offices on the upper floors and a cabaret theatre. Auerbach's Cellar and restaurant are still serving downstairs. The Mephisto Bar is a favorite waterhole.