Top Rated Attractions in Weimar

Weimar between the 18th and 19th centuries became a center of cultural development, art and architecture in Germany. This period particularly flourished during Goethe's life from 1749-1832 and became a hub of development. Several notable personalities like Goethe, Schiller, Christoph Weiland and Johann Gottfried Herder contributed to the development of literature, philosophy and culture during the Classical Period. The architecture and cultural centers that were developed or used during this period include Goethe's Home and Garden House, Wittumspalais, Ettersburg Palace, Ettersburg Park and St. Peter and Paul amongst others. Thanks to the architectural embellishments, Classical Weimar was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998.

Commissioned by Grand Duke from Saxe-Weimer-Eisenach Duchy, Karl Alexander August Johann, Goethe-Schiller Monument project is considered to be one of the most remarkable ones in Germany. The striking monument features figurines of Friedrich Schiller and Johann Wolfgang Goethe in bronze. Undoubtedly, these two were among the most celebrated names of German literature. Goethe-Schiller Monument was unveiled on September 4th, 1857, on the occasion of the 100th birthday celebrations of Duke Carl August. Today, this monument is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Goethe-Schiller Monument is also explained, "as one of the most famous and most beloved monuments in the whole of Germany."

Duchess Anna Amalia's Library, one of the renowned libraries in the country focuses on German literature and Art from the 19th century. With an incredible collection of medieval works, the best collection of Faust's work and Nietzsche’s library are all housed here. Due to a devastating fire in 2004, the library was remodeled and large parts of the collection were destroyed. Conservation work is ongoing and so visitors are limited. Don't miss the famous Rococo Hall during your visit. It's better to book your ticket well in advance for a chance to explore this historic site.

Buchenwald Memorial is the site of one of the first Third Reich concentration camps and is the largest of its kind in Germany. It was established in 1937 on Ettersberg to persecute political prisoners and minorities. Inmates from all across Europe were conscribed into the armament industry until 1945 when World War II ended. Today, it is a national memorial and contains cemeteries, the prison building, crematorium and library.

The Goethe-Nationalmuseum is a museum dedicated to one of the greatest poets the world has ever seen, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Goethe's House in Weimar has now been converted into the museum where you get to see how he lived and what influenced his literary accomplishments. Though this museum is hugely popular, limited visitors are allowed so that the place is not damaged by any means. A famous exhibition held here is 'The Bauhaus comes from Weimar'.

The Park an der Ilm is beautifully landscaped, part of the UNESCO 'Classical Weimar' area. Between 1778 and 1828, the park was completed and landscaped. The park is a wonderful example of the architecture of the Classical period, and several interesting monuments like the Goethe Gartenhaus and Römisches Haus can be found in the park. With beautiful gardens and meadows, it's truly a pleasure to explore the 48-hectare (118 acres) park.