A short history of Elisabethenburg Palace
On the Werra pasture, surrounded by the Palace Park and old city, this baroque-styled palace was erected in the years 1682 – 1692 under the regency of Duke Bernhard I, and he named it after his wife Elisabeth Eleonore. For 226 years, the palace was home to the dukes of Saxe-Meiningen and was originally built as a three-winged building, with a low rounded frontage. As a result of a second storey being added to the rounded section in the 19th century, the palace can only be truly appreciated once one has entered through the arched gate.
Despite the entire complex being colour matched with its decoration, it is not possible to overlook the difference in style of the north wing. It is the result of the integration of an earlier building of the palace, the so called Bibra Building. The Bishop of Würzburg, Lorenz von Bibra, commissioned this building of the palace between 1509 and 1511. Today, the palace houses a museum and art collection spanning some 800 years; displays of musical and theatre requisites from the city of Meiningen; local historical documents and records; as well as special thematic exhibitions. The rounded section is home to the city offices as well as other archives. The city music school is also at home in the palace, and the palace chapel, together with the concert hall ‘Johannes Brahms’ offer plenty of room for chamber music, organ and choral concerts. In the tower above the stairwell one can find one of Thuringia’s most beautiful baroque rooms in the ‘Turmcafé’ (Tower Café).
Take advantage of the opportunity and enjoy the culinary delights in the former ducal palace kitchens.
Family Ungerecht and staff wish you a pleasant stay.