Bauhaus and Its Sites in Weimar Dessau and Bernau

The Ultimate Guide to Bauhaus and Its Iconic Sites in Weimar, Dessau, and Bernau

Introduction

Bauhaus, a German word meaning “building house,” is one of the most influential art schools of the 20th century. Founded in 1919 by Walter Gropius, the school revolutionized modern design, architecture, and art education. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey to explore the iconic sites associated with Bauhaus in Weimar, Dessau, and Bernau.

Weimar (1919-1925)

The birthplace of Bauhaus, Weimar is a charming city in eastern Germany. During its early years, the school was housed in the Grand Ducal Art School building.

Bauhaus-Archiv Museum

Address: Theaterplatz 4a, 99423 Weimar Phone: +49 3643 545 40 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 6 pm

This museum showcases an extensive collection of Bauhaus artifacts, including furniture, textiles, and artworks. The building itself is a beautiful example of neo-Renaissance architecture.

Haus am Horn

Address: Am Horn 1, 99423 Weimar Phone: +49 3643 545 40 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 6 pm

The first Bauhaus exhibition was held in this building in 1923. Today, it features an impressive collection of furniture and decorative arts from the early Bauhaus period.

Nietzsche-Archiv

Address: Humboldtstraße 36, 99423 Weimar Phone: +49 3643 545 40 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 6 pm

Although not directly related to Bauhaus, this archive is dedicated to the life and works of Friedrich Nietzsche. The building’s architecture, however, reflects the modernist ideals of the time.

Dessau (1925-1932)

After a successful exhibition in Weimar, the Bauhaus school moved to Dessau, where it gained international recognition.

Bauhaus Building

Address: Miethestraße 8, 06846 Dessau-Roßlau Phone: +49 340 650 82 50 Hours: Daily, 10 am - 5 pm

This iconic building, designed by Walter Gropius, is a masterpiece of modernist architecture. The complex includes the school’s workshops, classrooms, and dormitories.

Masters’ Houses

Address: Ebertallee 59-61, 06846 Dessau-Roßlau Phone: +49 340 650 82 50 Hours: Daily, 10 am - 5 pm

These three houses were designed by Walter Gropius for the Bauhaus masters, including László Moholy-Nagy and Georg Muche. The buildings showcase innovative architectural solutions and stunning interior designs.

Kurt-Weill-Zentrum

Address: Marienstraße 12a, 06846 Dessau-Roßlau Phone: +49 340 650 82 50 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm

This center is dedicated to the life and works of Kurt Weill, a renowned composer who was associated with Bauhaus. The building features an impressive collection of his music and memorabilia.

Bernau (1932)

In 1932, the Bauhaus school moved to Bernau, where it operated for only a short period before being closed by the Nazi regime.

Bauhaus-Denkmal

Address: Steinerne Rinne 1, 16321 Bernau bei Berlin Phone: +49 3338 20 45 50 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am - 5 pm

This memorial is dedicated to the Bauhaus school and its significance in modern design history. The building’s architecture reflects the principles of functionalism and simplicity.

Tips for Visitors

  • Weimar:
    • Take a stroll through the picturesque Ilm Park, which surrounds the city center.
    • Visit the Weimar Market Square, featuring beautiful Renaissance-style buildings.
  • Dessau:
    • Explore the Bauhaus-Archiv Museum’s library and reading room.
    • Enjoy a coffee or lunch at the Masters’ Houses café.
  • Bernau:
    • Take a guided tour of the Bauhaus-Denkmal to gain deeper insights into its history and significance.

Getting There

  • Weimar: The closest airport is Erfurt-Weimar Airport (ERF), approximately 30 km from Weimar. Regular train connections are available from major German cities.
  • Dessau: The closest airport is Leipzig-Halle Airport (LEJ), approximately 45 km from Dessau. Regular train connections are available from major German cities.
  • Bernau: The closest airport is Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), approximately 30 km from Bernau. Regular train and bus connections are available from Berlin city center.

Accommodation

Weimar:

  • Hotel Elephant Weimar (4-star)
  • Hotel Anna Amalia (3-star)

Dessau:

  • Radisson Blu Fürst Leopold Hotel Dessau (4-star)
  • Hotel Anhalt (3-star)

Bernau:

  • Hotel Restaurant zum Grünen Baum (3-star)
  • Gasthof & Pension zur alten Schmiede (2-star)

Conclusion

Bauhaus is an integral part of modern design history, and visiting its iconic sites in Weimar, Dessau, and Bernau is a must for anyone interested in architecture, art, and culture. This comprehensive guide has provided you with all the necessary information to plan your trip and make the most of your Bauhaus experience.

Happy travels!