Weimar Regains Historical Stein House: Prestigious Residence Returns to City Ownership
Weimar, Germany – After a protracted legal battle, the historic Stein House in Weimar, Germany, has been returned to the city’s possession. The baroque building, once home to Goethe’s intimate confidante Frau von Stein, has been the subject of controversy in recent years due to its sale to a Spanish investor and subsequent lack of promised renovations.
"I will endeavor to find a reputable and financially sound partner who will swiftly resume the necessary repairs and make the house accessible to the public," announced Weimar Mayor Peter Kleine (non-partisan).
A Long-Awaited Resolution
The city has been embroiled in legal proceedings for years to regain control of the prestigious building after agreed-upon investments failed to materialize. Plans for a museum showcasing works by Salvador Dalí, an artist’s residence, and a café never came to fruition.
A June 2022 Erfurt District Court ruling ordered the return of the building to the city, which was recently enforced by a судебной исполнитель. The property has been registered in the land registry in accordance with the verdict.
"The Stein House must remain in the city’s ownership and can no longer be sold," Mayor Kleine emphasized.
Deterioration and Ongoing Assessment
An initial inspection of the property revealed that the promised renovations are far from complete. No apparent construction activities have taken place since the previous inspection in August 2022. The city has commissioned an up-to-date building assessment for evidential purposes.
Historical Significance
The baroque Stein House holds immense cultural significance for Weimar Classicism. Built in the 1770s, it served as the residence for Duke’s Grand Master of the Stables Gottlob Ernst Josias Freiherr von Stein and his wife Charlotte (1742-1827), a lady-in-waiting to Duchess Anna Amalia and close friend of the literary giant Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832).
After German reunification, the building briefly housed the Goethe Institute in the 1990s.
A Promise to Preserve
Mayor Kleine expressed his gratitude for the legal resolution, stating that it will ensure the preservation of a cherished historical asset. The city is committed to finding a suitable partner who will complete the renovations and open the Stein House to the public.
"The return of the Stein House is a testament to the city’s determination to protect its cultural heritage," said Mayor Kleine. "It will once again become a vibrant cultural hub, a place where visitors can connect with the legacy of Goethe and the Weimar Classicism movement."
