Palais Papius

The Palais Papius, nestled in the heart of Wetzlar's old town in Hessen, Germany, is a hidden gem of Baroque architecture and historical significance. This elegant, two-story palace, located at Kornblumengasse 1, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing a blend of architectural splendor and cultural heritage that captivates every visitor.

Historical Evolution of Palais Papius

The central building of Palais Papius was constructed around 1740 by Johann Conrad Heeser von Lilienthal, a procurator at the Imperial Chamber Court. The palace's history took a significant turn in 1756 when it was substantially expanded by Johann Hermann Franz von Pape, known as Papius. He transformed the structure into the four-wing complex that we see today, centered around a rectangular courtyard. Despite the passage of time, some rooms still retain their original 18th-century furnishings.

By the late 18th century, the palace came under the ownership of Freiherr von Hammerstein, who further modified and expanded the building. During the second major visitation of the Imperial Chamber Court (1767-1776), notable figures such as Egon von Fürstenberg and his successor Franz Gundacker von Colloredo-Mansfeld resided in the palace. In 1816, the building was auctioned to private owners, marking the beginning of its varied uses over the years.

Since 1860, the city of Wetzlar has owned Palais Papius, initially converting it into a school. It served as a lyceum from 1905 to 1923 and later housed a Catholic elementary school from 1923 to 1938. During World War II and the immediate post-war years, it accommodated the Wetzlar Economic Office. The 1950s and 60s saw the palace being used by a commercial vocational school. In 1967, it transitioned into a museum, and from 1975 until her death in 1984, it also served as the residence of Irmgard Freiin von Lemmers-Danforth. Following renovations, the museum reopened on May 4, 2012.

Architectural Highlights

The unassuming yet grand façade of Palais Papius, with its light plaster and large, stone-framed, arched gateway, faces the street. The courtyard within is dominated by the main façade, featuring a large, slate-clad dormer. The true artistic value of the building lies in its intricate interior design. The stairwell and garden-facing rooms boast lavish Rococo stucco ceilings and doors, with the latter reflecting the Rococo forms of the mid-18th century. The grand salon, located in the street-facing section, was adorned with wall and ceiling stucco towards the end of the 18th century. Here, flat, fluted pilasters with Corinthian capitals support the entablature, above which a cove with egg-and-dart and palmette frieze can be seen. The stucco in the adjoining corner rooms adopts the slightly older Directoire style.

The Museum Experience

Today, Palais Papius primarily functions as a museum, showcasing the European Residential Culture from the Renaissance and Baroque collection. This collection, started around 1928 and significantly expanded during the Nazi era, was assembled by Wetzlar honorary citizen Irmgard von Lemmers-Danforth (1892-1984). Since 1967, the exhibition has been housed in the palace, displaying princely furniture from the 15th to the early 18th centuries from Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Germany.

One of the museum's highlights is a recently restored, large silk brocade wall hanging, measuring 3 meters by 2.5 meters, dating back to between 1450 and 1470. Likely crafted in Italy, its main motif is a blossoming pomegranate bud. This exquisite piece, made from silk velvet with interwoven metal threads, is a testament to the opulence of the period.

The collection is further enriched with paintings, clocks, fine ceramics, and goldsmithing artworks, providing a comprehensive picture of European residential culture from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Beyond its museum function, Palais Papius also serves as a venue for the city's festive receptions, adding a touch of historical grandeur to contemporary events.

Visiting Palais Papius

Exploring Palais Papius is like stepping back in time. As you wander through its elegantly decorated rooms, you can almost hear the echoes of the past and imagine the lives of those who once inhabited this grand residence. The carefully preserved and restored interiors offer a unique opportunity to experience the artistic and cultural richness of the Baroque period.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Palais Papius promises a rewarding and enriching experience. Its blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination in Wetzlar. So, take a stroll through the old town, step into this magnificent palace, and let the stories of the past unfold before your eyes.