Ettersburg Castle and Park

Hunting lodge and summer residence of the Weimar dukes

Ettersburg Castle unfolds its special atmosphere amidst the picturesque hilly landscape of the Ettersberg. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Classical Weimar”, it is one of the region's outstanding cultural monuments and offers visitors a fascinating insight into the past.

From a hunting residence to an important cultural site

The origins of the castle date back to the early Middle Ages, when a refuge castle and later an Augustinian monastery were located here. Duke Wilhelm Ernst of Saxe-Weimar built a simple three-winged complex as a hunting lodge on its foundations between 1706 and 1711. In the middle of the forest, a unique hunting ground was created with radiating aisles and magnificent avenues that connected the palace with the surrounding area.

Under Duchess Anna Amalia, Ettersburg Castle became a summer residence of special radiance from 1775. Poets, musicians and philosophers gathered here for stimulating conversations and inspiring performances. Names such as Goethe, Wieland and Herder are closely associated with the history of the castle. Even today, the imposing tulip tree in front of the Rifle Hall bears witness to this glorious era.

A work of garden art between Baroque and Romanticism

The castle park impresses with a harmonious combination of Baroque elements and 19th century landscape design ideas. Renowned garden artists such as Hermann von Pückler-Muskau shaped its current appearance. Particularly impressive is the so-called “Pücklerschlag”, a curved avenue that draws the eye to the charming surroundings.

Ettersburg Castle today

Today, Ettersburg Castle is a lively meeting place and source of inspiration. An academy with conference rooms enables active use of the historic rooms. The castle park is open for walks and recreation, while access to the interior remains restricted.

Discover Ettersburg Castle as a fascinating combination of history, architecture and nature - ideal for culture enthusiasts, history buffs and nature lovers.