Lost in time, Molsdorf Palace whispers stories of love and lavishness. This Baroque jewel, nestled southwest of Erfurt, invites us to step back into the 18th century. Molsdorf is more than just a place. It is a portal to a world of elegance and intrigue.
Molsdorf’s history stretches back to the 8th century. It gained prominence in the 18th century with the construction of this magnificent palace. Imagine a moated castle transformed into a Baroque pleasure palace. This transformation occurred thanks to Gustav Adolph von Gotter. He was a noble diplomat with refined taste.
In 1734, Gotter acquired the estate. He envisioned Molsdorf as his personal paradise. He commissioned architect Gottfried Heinrich Krohne. Krohne redesigned the garden facade and interiors. The ballroom and adjoining rooms boast magnificent stuccowork. High-quality wall and ceiling paintings adorn the space. Portrait paintings depict rulers and high-ranking personalities. They reflect Gotter’s diplomatic connections and social aspirations.
Molsdorf became Gotter’s haven for 15 years. He famously inscribed “Hicce terrarum praeter omnes angelus ridet” on the north portal. It means “Here of all places on earth an angel smiles.” However, Gotter’s extravagant lifestyle forced him to sell the palace in 1748. Despite the change in ownership, Molsdorf’s legacy of cheerfulness lived on.
Over the years, Molsdorf faced changing uses. It served as accommodation for resettlers after World War Two and even a children’s home. There were plans to demolish the building in the 1950s, but thankfully, Molsdorf was spared.
Today, Molsdorf Palace stands as a testament to refined taste. Leopold Friedrich Günther Goeckingk praised it as unmatched in its decorations. The south wing, designed by Krohne, features French windows that flood the palace with light.
Gotter’s motto, “vive la joie” or “live the joy”, echoes throughout the palace. A hidden spiral staircase connects the count’s bedroom to the wine cellar. It also leads to the outside. Imagine Gotter’s famous meals. Guests were offered dishes filled with watches, rings, and jewellery. They could pick a souvenir.
Don’t miss the marble bathroom from around 1910. Countess of Gneisenau commissioned it. Green-veined Jurassic limestone covers the walls. A sofa with a golden frame sits opposite the bathtub. Golden lattice gates with Art Nouveau elements decorate the room.
Since 1998, the Palace, Castle and Gardens Trust of Thuringia has managed Molsdorf. A lapidarium displays baroque sculptures. They provide a glimpse into the palace gardens’ past glory. Avenues invite visitors to wander. The rough stone wall and wrought-iron gates add to the experience.
Molsdorf is a place to explore and enjoy. Visit the Park Cafe Molsdorf. It is located on the ground floor of the palace. The Molsdorf palace museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday. It is open from 10 AM to 6 PM. You can only visit it with a guided tour. Tours start every full hour. Molsdorf’s charm and history will captivate you.