Weimar City Castle (Stadtschloss)

A grand ducal palace complex overlooking the Ilm, serving as the former residence of the Dukes of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach and now home to art museums. The Stadtschloss evolved over centuries – a Renaissance castle on this site burned down in 1774, and the current Neoclassical palace was constructed in phases from 1789 to 1803 (north and east wings under Goethe's supervision) and completed in the 19th century. The pale yellow three-winged palace features a prominent tower and elegantly simple facade. Inside, notable spaces include the luminous Castle Chapel (with an altar painted by Lucas Cranach) and ornate halls that hosted Weimar's court society. Goethe worked here as a privy councilor and helped redesign rooms in classical style. Today the castle houses the Schlossmuseum, exhibiting fine art collections such as Lucas Cranach paintings and treasures of Weimar Classicism. Visitors can tour period rooms with original furnishings and view artworks spanning the Middle Ages to 19th century. The surrounding Castle Park links directly to Park an der Ilm, creating a harmonious ensemble. The City Castle, part of the UNESCO Classical Weimar, stands as a testament to the patronage of Weimar's ducal family and the cultural zenith they nurtured.