• Market Square - Let’s start our exploration at the Market Square, a central hub in Weimar frequented by locals and visitors alike. This square has been the stomping ground for numerous notable figures. The renaissance artist Lucas Cranach once resided in a nearby building. However, it’s the classicist figures that draw the crowds here. Weimar is a walker’s paradise with all attractions within easy reach. The buildings here mirror the era of aristocracy.

At Theaterplatz, we encounter the monument to Goethe and Schiller, two of Germany’s most esteemed classicists. The influence of Weimar classicism is evident from the gatherings held by the dowager duchess Anna Amalia, which were attended by luminaries including Goethe and Schiller. Their statues now stand prominently in front of the National Theater, becoming a focal point of the square.

Across from this is the House of the Weimar Republic, the birthplace of Germany’s first democratic constitution following World War I. The Weimar Republic emerged here after the collapse of the German Empire, marking Germany’s initial foray into democracy. This experiment was short-lived, however, as the rise of the Nazi party in 1933 brought it to an end. The history of the Weimar Republic is recounted within the walls of this now restored building, which also serves as a Democracy Forum.

The Saint Peter and Paul Church, Weimar’s most significant church, is our next destination. Constructed on the site of a 13th-century church, it was originally built in the 16th century in the gothic style. It transitioned to the Lutheran faith in the same century, with Martin Luther himself delivering sermons there. The church is the final resting place of the renowned theologian Johan Gottfried Herder, who served as its superintendent, as well as Duchess Anna Amalia. A memorial to Herder, erected in 1850, stands before the church.

We will then stroll past the Weimar Palace, the historical residence of the dukes of Saxe-Weimar and Eisenach. Initially a medieval fortress mentioned as early as the 10th century, it underwent numerous reconstructions due to fire damage and was eventually transformed into a stately palace over a span of 500 years.

Our journey continues to Democracy Square, formerly known as Duke’s Square, aptly named for its encirclement by regal edifices. Here, you’ll find the so-called red and yellow palaces and the residence of Duke Charles Augustus.

Adjacent to this is Anna Amalia’s Library, a quaint palace that has been home to a cherished library for many generations. Named after the dowager duchess Anna Amalia, who was a significant patron, the library houses numerous rarities, including a document marking Goethe’s initial arrival in the city. He managed the library for many years.

Beside Anna Amalia’s Library lies the Park an der Ilm, established in the 18th century. Celebrated for its exquisite trees and architectural marvels, such as the remnants of the Tempelherrenhaus, Goethe also contributed to the park’s design. He spent his early Weimar years in a charming house adjacent to the park, a gift from Charles Augustus.

We will then visit Goethe’s House on Frauenplan, which became his more grandiose abode after 1782. Many rooms here are preserved as they were during the poet’s final years, including his study where he penned works like Faust. Goethe resided in Weimar until his passing in 1832.

Another highlight is the Liszt Haus, where the composer Franz Liszt spent numerous summers, courtesy of the local Duke. Liszt offered free piano instruction to young musicians from across Europe in his Weimar home.

The next landmark is Friedrich Schiller’s House. A meeting brought Schiller and Goethe together, and after being struck by Schiller’s talent, Goethe extended an invitation to him to come to Weimar. This marked the beginning of their prolific collaboration.

To conclude, we will escort you back to the Market Square for your convenience.

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