GERA

city, Thuringia Land (state), east-central Germany. It lies along the Weisse Elster River, southwest of Leipzig. First mentioned in 995 and by 1237 referred to as a town, it became part of the principality of Meissen in 1547. Passing to the Reuss family in 1562, it became their residence and capital from 1564 to 1918. Although largely destroyed by fire in 1639, 1686, and 1780, the city was always rebuilt. It suffered heavy damage in World War II, after which a new city centre was built. The Osterstein Palace (16861735) was the seat of the Reuss princes. There are Baroque and Renaissance buildings around the market square. A rail junction, Gera manufactures textiles, metal products, machinery, fats, oils, and furniture. Pop. (1996 est.) 123,555.