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Monument · Weimar, Turíngia
Goethe-Schiller-Denkmal
Bronze monument from 1857 showing Goethe and Schiller side by side, in front of the National Theatre on Theaterplatz. It was in that theatre that the Weimar Constitution was approved in 1919.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Goethe-Schiller-Denkmal
The monument to Goethe and Schiller stands on the Theaterplatz, in front of the Deutsches Nationaltheater. It was designed by the sculptor Ernst Rietschel, from Dresden, and inaugurated on 4 September 1857 during celebrations for the 100th anniversary of Duke Carl August. The bronze was cast in Munich and used metal from Ottoman cannons.
The two writers appear side by side, holding a laurel wreath together, a symbol of the friendship and partnership that marked Weimar Classicism. The monument gained copies in the United States, in cities such as San Francisco, Milwaukee and Cleveland.
Behind it, the Deutsches Nationaltheater occupies the west side of the square. In 1919 the National Assembly met in the theatre and approved the constitution that gave its name to the Weimar Republic. On the other side of the Theaterplatz are the Wittumspalais, the widow’s residence of Duchess Anna Amalia, and the Haus der Weimarer Republik museum.
The square is a meeting point in the historic centre and is only a few steps from Schiller's house.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 10 to 20 minutes.
Best time
In the late afternoon or at night, when the theatre façade is lit. Early in the morning the square is quieter for photos.
How to get there
It is on the Theaterplatz in the historic centre, about a 3-minute walk from Schillerstraße and roughly 15 minutes from Weimar station.
Tip
On the other side of the square, the Haus der Weimarer Republik museum tells the story of Germany's first democracy. If you want to see a performance, check the theatre's schedule in advance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Goethe-Schiller-Denkmal
Why do Goethe and Schiller appear together?
The monument celebrates the friendship and partnership of the two in Weimar, the basis of the so-called Weimar Classicism.
What happened at the Teatro Nacional in 1919?
The National Assembly met there and approved the Constitution of the Weimar Republic.
Can you attend performances at the theater?
Yes, the Deutsches Nationaltheater has a program of theater, opera and concerts. Check dates before traveling.