Jerusalemhaus Guide
Jerusalemhaus: Where Goethe Found Inspiration Guide
The Jerusalemhaus, a modest yet historically significant building in Wetzlar, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the young Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. This unassuming house served as Goethe's residence during his brief but impactful stay in Wetzlar in 1772. It was here that he experienced the unrequited love that inspired his seminal work, *The Sorrows of Young Werther*, a novel that catapulted him to literary fame. Today, the Jerusalemhaus is a museum dedicated to Goethe's time in Wetzlar and the creation of his masterpiece. The history of the Jerusalemhaus is intertwined with the story of Goethe's personal experiences. He arrived in Wetzlar to work as a legal clerk but soon became infatuated with Charlotte Buff, the fiancée of his colleague Johann Christian Kestner. This unrequited love, combined with the suicide of Goethe's acquaintance Karl Wilhelm Jerusalem, deeply affected him and provided the raw material for *The Sorrows of Young Werther*. The house itself, with its simple furnishings and intimate atmosphere, offers a tangible connection to this pivotal period in Goethe's life. Visitors to the Jerusalemhaus can explore the rooms where Goethe lived and worked, gaining insights into his daily life and the emotional turmoil that fueled his writing. The museum displays original letters, documents, and artifacts related to Goethe's time in Wetzlar and the creation of *Werther*. You can wander through the garden, imagining Goethe pacing and contemplating his unrequited love. The Jerusalemhaus provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and connect with one of Germany's greatest literary figures.
Transportation
The Jerusalemhaus is located in the heart of Wetzlar's old town and is easily accessible on foot. From the Wetzlar train station, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Follow the signs towards the Altstadt (old town). Several bus lines also serve the city center, with stops within walking distance of the Jerusalemhaus. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.