Purpose: Maximilian Carl-Friedrich Nitze (1848 to 1906) designed the modern cystoscope, providing a foundation for urology.
Materials and methods: The historical literature, including the original writings of Nitze, was reviewed.
Results: The invention of the cystoscope by Nitze revolutionized endoscopy but his true genius lay in his lifelong pursuit of better methods to diagnose and treat patients with urological diseases and in teaching others the practical use and value of cystoscopy. He also designed the first operating cystoscope, took the first endoscopic photographs and published the first textbook in urology.
Conclusions: The legacy of discovery of Max Nitze established the specialty of urology and a legitimate claim as the father of urology.