Goethe lived in this house on the Frauenplan from 1782 until his death in 1832 — fifty years, which gives the place an unusual density of personal objects. The study where he worked, the collections of minerals and art he accumulated, the bedroom where he died: it is the most complete picture of any German literary figure's domestic life. The adjacent exhibition building by HG Merz contextualises his work without overwhelming the house itself. Book timed tickets in advance, especially in summer.
Goethe National Museum
Goethe's home for fifty years, preserved with his collections
A story
Goethe's last words, according to his secretary, were "Mehr Licht!" — more light. He died in the chair in his study on 22 March 1832. The room is preserved as it was, including the chair, and the light that enters through the windows he insisted on keeping uncurtained.