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Architecture · Weimar, Turíngia
Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek
Historic library with the Rokokosaal, an oval hall from 1766, World Heritage. Goethe worked there for decades. Daily visitor numbers are limited.
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 Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek
The Duchess Anna Amalia Library holds one of Germany’s most important historic collections. The heart of the building is the Rokokosaal, an oval rococo hall from 1766, surrounded by bookshelves across several levels, with busts and portraits of the Weimar court, such as that of Grand Duke Carl August. Goethe was one of its most prominent frequenters and worked there from 1797 to 1832.
In September 2004, a fire destroyed about 50,000 volumes, 12,500 of them considered irreplaceable, and damaged another 62,000. It was the largest library fire in Germany since World War II. Around 6,000 historic works were rescued at the time, including a 1534 Luther Bible. The building was restored and reopened to readers and visitors.
Visits to the Rokokosaal are limited to 290 people per day to protect the collection. There is an audio guide at the ticket office and via the Weimar+ app, and the study centre next door hosts temporary exhibitions.
The library is part of the World Heritage Site of the Classicism of Weimar.
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
From 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
Buy tickets in advance, especially on weekends and in summer. Closed on Mondays; check the opening hours.
How to get there
It is on Platz der Demokratie, next to Park an der Ilm, about a 5-minute walk from the Markt and Goethe’s house.
Tip
With the daily visitor limit, secure your ticket before the trip. On Sunday afternoons there are often short guided tours of the Rokokosaal; check the programme.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek
Do I need to reserve a visit to the Rokokosaal?
It is recommended. The hall admits a maximum of 290 people per day, and tickets can sell out on busy days.
Was the library destroyed in the 2004 fire?
The fire destroyed about 50,000 books and damaged the building, but part of the collection was saved and the rococo hall was restored.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes, at the ticket office or via the Weimar+ app.
Is it open on Mondays?
No. The library is open Tuesday to Sunday; check the opening times before you go.