Villa Meyer II

Hidden in plain sight, Villa Meyer II whispers stories of Leipzig’s grand past. This stunning two-and-a-half-story villa stands before you, a testament to the city’s rich history. Built in 1885 for Herrmann Julius Meyer, the publisher of the renowned “Meyersches Konversationslexikon,” Villa Meyer II exudes an air of Mediterranean elegance. The Neo-Renaissance palazzo, designed by architect Max Pommer, was the first of many grand villas he would create for Leipzig’s affluent citizens. Imagine stepping back in time to the late 19th century as we explore this architectural gem. The villa’s dark red brick facade, accented with intricate sgraffito friezes, hints at the opulence within. In 1893, the villa changed hands, becoming the home of businessman Christian Alexander Frege II. It remained in the Frege family until 1932, when it was inherited by his daughters, Herta Dufour-Feronce and Annemarie Klemm. The Klemm family resided in Villa Meyer II amidst its impressive murals and stucco decorations until the arrival of Russian troops. During World War II, the villa served as headquarters for the NS Altherrenbund, a Nazi student organization. Later, from 1948, it housed the Kulturbund der DDR, the cultural association of East Germany. During this period, the original murals were repeatedly painted over with latex. Ironically, this act of concealment preserved the stunning beer-glaze stone imitation paintings beneath. In 2002, a new chapter began for Villa Meyer II. The Weitzel family purchased the property and undertook a meticulous restoration. Many original details were painstakingly revived. With support from the city of Leipzig, the exquisite figurative and ornamental paintings were restored to their former glory. Today, Villa Meyer II stands as a proud reminder of Leipzig’s golden age, a hidden treasure waiting to be rediscovered. The villa’s sandstone details, including the corner quoins, cornices, window frames, portals, and columns, contrast beautifully with the dark red brick. Observe the remarkable sgraffito frieze that adorns the facade beneath the flat roof’s main cornice. Villa Meyer II invites you to journey back in time and experience the grandeur of 19th-century Leipzig.