Palast

Nestled in the heart of Coburg, the Palast, originally known as the Edinburgh-Palais, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Neorenaissance architecture. This magnificent structure, once the residence of royalty, now serves as the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Coburg. Its storied past and elegant facade make it a must-see for visitors exploring the rich history of Bavaria.

The History of the Palast

The Palast's journey began between 1845 and 1846 when Karl August Freiherr von Wangenheim commissioned its construction on the north side of the Coburg Schlossplatz. Designed in the style of Italian Early Mannerism, the two-story building boasted a facade that faced the Ehrenburg Palace. However, Wangenheim's time in the Palast was brief, as he passed away in 1850. The building then became part of the ducal family's holdings.

In 1865, Prince Alfred of Edinburgh, son of Queen Victoria, acquired the property. He enlisted the talents of Georg Konrad Rothbart, a renowned local architect, to transform the Palast into a Neorenaissance masterpiece. The renovation included the addition of a third floor, a central risalit, and a gable adorned with a small obelisk. These changes were completed in 1866, and the Palast was then used as a guesthouse close to the castle.

A Royal Residence

The Palast saw further changes in 1881 when Prince Alfred prepared to succeed his uncle, Ernst II. Architect Hans Rothbart expanded the building with a four-story east wing, significantly increasing its living space. The Palast became home to Prince Alfred, his wife Maria Alexandrowna Romanowa, and their five children until Ernst's death in 1893, cementing its identity as the Edinburgh-Palais in local parlance.

Following the prince's death in 1900, the Palast remained a residence for the family until Maria's passing in 1920. In 1921, it was inherited by their daughter Alexandra and her husband, Ernst of Hohenlohe-Langenburg. They eventually sold it to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Coburg in 1939.

The Palast in Modern Times

World War II brought a new chapter for the Palast when it was requisitioned by the American military in 1945. It served as a cultural center and library until 1952, after which it reverted to its role as the Chamber of Commerce's headquarters. Despite the passage of time, the Palast's exterior remains largely unchanged since 1881, save for the loss of the obelisk, which has subtly altered the building's harmonious facade.

Exploring the Palast

Today, visitors to the Palast can admire its stately exterior and imagine the opulent lifestyle it once housed. Although much of the interior's original splendor has faded, remnants of its former glory can still be found. In the main building's ground floor, traces of leather wall coverings and stucco ceilings whisper of its luxurious past. Meanwhile, the east wing retains some of its intricate wood paneling and carvings.

In 2009, a comprehensive renovation introduced a new entrance facing the Schlossplatz, inviting visitors to step inside and explore the building's storied history. While the Palast primarily functions as a business hub today, its historical significance and architectural beauty continue to draw tourists and locals alike.

A Jewel of Coburg

The Palast stands as a jewel in Coburg's architectural crown, a symbol of the city's rich cultural heritage and royal connections. Its elegant lines and storied past make it a compelling destination for anyone interested in the intersection of history and architecture. As you wander the streets of Coburg, let the Palast transport you back to a time of grandeur and royal intrigue, where every stone tells a story of days gone by.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply a curious traveler, the Palast offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, making it an essential stop on your journey through Bavaria's charming landscapes and historic towns.