Greiz Summer Palace and Princely Greiz Park

State Collection of Books and Copper Engravings

The Greiz Summer Palace - an architectural masterpiece of early classicism - stands in the heart of the Princely Greiz Park. Built between 1769 and 1779, it once served as an elegant summer residence for the Reuss Elder Line princes. With its clear, balanced design and fine stucco decorations, it is one of the most important buildings in Thuringia, marking the transition from Baroque to Neoclassical architecture.

Cultural heritage and fascinating collections

Today, the Summer Palace is much more than an architectural gem - it houses art treasures of international standing. The Greiz State Collection of Books and Copper Engravings preserves unique historical prints, including valuable mezzotints after paintings by the renowned English painter Joshua Reynolds. Equally impressive is the princely library, whose origins date back to the mid-18th century.

A particular highlight is the SATIRICUM, one of the most important collections of historical and contemporary caricatures in Germany. With over 12,000 sheets, it documents the development of satire from the GDR era to the present day. Regularly changing exhibitions in the Garden Hall and on the Beletage make the Sommerpalais an exciting place to experience art and culture.

Princely Greiz Park - a park full of poetry

The Summer Palace is nestled in one of the most charming landscaped gardens in central Germany. The Princely Greiz Park, whose roots go back to the 17th century, was completed in the 19th century by the garden artist Carl Eduard Petzold and park director Rudolph Reinecken.

The artistic design combines baroque elements with the free, natural aesthetics of English landscape gardens. Extensive meadows, artistically designed sightlines and an impressive variety of trees make the park a botanical gem. The park lake with its picturesque islands invites you to linger, while carefully staged lines of sight, such as those to the White Cross above the park, make the walk through nature a special experience.

Enjoy culture and nature at the Summer Palace

Whether on a guided tour of the summer palace, an inspiring concert in the garden hall or a relaxing stroll through the park - Greiz offers a unique combination of art, history and nature. Let yourself be enchanted by the elegance of classicism and immerse yourself in the world of the Reuss princes.

The Summer Palace and park were designated a “cultural monument of national importance” in 2009 and are among the most impressive cultural destinations in Thuringia. A visit is worthwhile at any time of year!