95 theses

Martin Luther, a central figure of the Protestant Reformation, criticized indulgences and other practices of the Catholic Church. He translated the Bible into German and published his 95 Theses in 1517, setting in motion a movement that transformed Christendom. His works profoundly influence European theology and society.

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

The Protestant Reformation, initiated by Martin Luther in 1517 with his 95 Theses at Wittenberg, profoundly transformed Western Christianity. Based on the principles of Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide and Sola Gratia, it led to the emergence of Protestantism in its many forms (Lutheranism, Calvinism and Anglicanism) and brought major religious, political and cultural upheavals to Europe, marking the beginning of the modern era.

Level: Easy Audience: Beginners

In 1517, Martin Luther, a professor of theology in Wittenberg, wrote his 95 theses in response to the Catholic Church’s sale of indulgences. Sent to the Archbishop of Mainz on 31 October and rapidly circulated through printing, they criticised ecclesiastical abuses and advocated inward spiritual repentance. Condemned by Pope Leo X in 1520, they sparked the Protestant Reformation and permanently transformed the history of Western Christianity.

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

In 1521, Martin Luther was officially excommunicated by the papal bull Decet Romanum Pontificem, after refusing to recant following the publication of his 95 theses in 1517. Summoned to the Diet of Worms, he maintained his positions before Emperor Charles V. Declared an outlaw, he took refuge at the Wartburg. This foundational event marked the birth of Protestantism and permanently transformed Europe's religious and political history.

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate