Goethe's Abode Gets a Boost from the Federal Government's Wallet
Gearing up for a significant transformation, Goethe's residence in Weimar is set to undergo restoration and museum redesign, as confirmed by Klassik Stiftung Weimar. This revamp will receive financial backing from the federal government to the tune of 17.15 million euros, representing half of the basic public funding, the Bundestag Budget Committee announced on Thursday.
The "Goethe Residence Ensemble" in Weimar, being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will be the recipient of this transformative action. The Bundestag Budget Committee's decision concerning Goethe's National Museum is subject to the approval of the federal budget.
Ulrike Lorenz, the President of Klassik Stiftung Weimar, lauded the Bundestag's dedication to this endeavor, terming it a momentous commitment to preserving one of German culture's most significant literary monuments. She emphasized this project's capacity to ensure the restoration of Goethe's residence in a harmonious partnership between public and private sectors.
Thuringia, a second public sponsor, has signaled its intent to contribute the other half of the basic funding in 2022. Private foundations have also pledged support to the tune of around ten million euros, contingent upon fulfillment of funding commitments from both the federal and state governments.
According to Klassik Stiftung Weimar, planning for the restoration of Goethe's residence on Frauenplan in Weimar preserving its status as a listed building and implementing a new museum concept commenced with the backing of Thuringian support. Construction is slated to commence in spring 2026.
This restoration and museum redesign phase falls under the purview of the Bundestag Budget Committee, given its role in literary and cultural preservation. This project, a significant contribution to German literature, will also receive financial support from the private sector with commitments totaling around ten million euros.
Enrichment Insight: While sourcing information on the total funding for this project, it's essential to focus on reports or documents directly related to the restoration and museum redesign of Goethe's home. General documents related to other projects, such as the Missing Middle repopulation initiative or Sir John Soane's Museum annual report, aren't likely to provide relevant details.
