Step into the world of Baroque knowledge: Entering the historic hall of the Library Hall Kulissenbibliothek, visitors are immediately immersed in the serene grandeur of early modern scholarship. The original bookcases project into the room like the wings of a baroque stage, creating an atmosphere of theatrical knowledge. Around 50,000 volumes from all fields of early modern science and humanities are preserved here. Behind modest spines lie remarkable treasures – including the first German Bible ever printed in America.
Founded at the end of the 17th century, the library of the Historic Orphanage was among the first public libraries in Germany. Through generous donations, book exchanges, and its own publishing house, the collection grew rapidly and soon rivalled the holdings of major university libraries. In 1728, the library moved into its own purpose-built structure – today considered the oldest surviving secular library building in Germany.
The library has drawn international attention for centuries. Renowned figures such as Albrecht von Haller, Johann Joachim Winckelmann, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once marvelled at its bibliophilic treasures. Today, selected highlights are presented in rotating cabinet exhibitions held in the library’s former reading room.
