Wittumspalais

The Wittumspalais (Widow's Palace) is an 18th-century city palace that was the dowager residence of Duchess Anna Amalia after 1774. This two-story Rococo-style mansion, built around 1767–1769, became Anna Amalia's home when she retired as regent. She hosted a renowned intellectual salon here, where Goethe, Schiller, Herder, and other luminaries convened for evening gatherings of conversation, games, and music – the famous "Tafelrunde" (Round Table). The palace's richly furnished period rooms have been preserved as a museum. Visitors can walk through the elegant ballroom with crystal chandeliers, the music room where chamber pieces were played, and Anna Amalia's own writing room. Original furniture, portraits (including of the ducal family and Goethe), and personal items evoke the convivial atmosphere of Weimar around 1800. Notably, the Wittumspalais was where Schiller first met Goethe in 1785 at one of the duchess's parties. After falling into disrepair in the 19th century, the building was restored and served as a museum by early 20th century (and again after WWII). Currently undergoing renovations (as of 2025), the Wittumspalais stands as a testament to Anna Amalia's pivotal role in fostering Weimar's Classical culture.