Treasures from the library’s collections

Experience our rare literary treasures close-up!

In our table presentation, the staff of the Klassik Stiftung Weimar introduce you to the library’s collections and highlight selected items in greater detail. They explain various techniques of the bookmaking handicraft and point out aspects of materiality, preservation and restoration. New thematic focuses are presented each year.

Vulpius Gallery

The presentation takes place on the so-called “Vulpius Gallery” above the Rococo Hall. This section of the historic library was destroyed by the fire in 2004 and was rebuilt using modern materials and technology. Preserved remnants of the fire commemorate the destruction.

Visibly charred wooden railing
Installation commemorating the fire on the Vulpius Gallery

2024 · Rescued treasures from the library

Inside collections after the library fire

The blaze on 2 September 2004 marked a profound turning point in the history of the Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek and its collections. The reconstruction and the development of innovative restoration methods were made possible by an unprecedented wave of support.

Experience precious book treasures up close and learn about the cultural and historical background as well as strategies for preserving this valuable cultural asset.

Marbled wallpaper, illustration from the “Journal of Luxury and Fashion”

2023 · Literary treasures dedicated to living culture

As part of the Klassik Stiftung Weimar’s 2023 Theme Year on “Living”, the Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek (HAAB) offered an event series dedicated to the topic of living culture. The Weimar “Journal of Luxury and Fashion”, sumptuously illustrated manuals and pattern books for architects, furniture makers and interior designers, literature on technical inventions, Weimar Bauhaus designs and GDR-era publications – the collections of the HAAB offer fascinating insights into the living culture of past centuries.

Projects of the Klassik Stiftung Weimar are funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Free State of Thuringia, represented by the State Chancellery of Thuringia, Department of Culture and the Arts.