Background

Mendelssohn-Haus: A Composer's Legacy

Explore the world of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy at his beautifully restored Leipzig home, a vibrant museum showcasing his life, music, and enduring legacy in the heart of the city.

4.7

Step back in time at the Mendelssohn-Haus, the only surviving residence of the celebrated composer Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. Located in the heart of Leipzig, this meticulously restored house offers an intimate glimpse into the composer's life, work, and family. Explore the faithfully reconstructed apartment, furnished in the Biedermeier style, and discover original manuscripts, letters, and watercolors. The museum also features exhibits dedicated to Mendelssohn's sister, Fanny Hensel, and conductor Kurt Masur, adding layers of depth to the visitor experience. Regular concerts in the music salon keep Mendelssohn's musical legacy alive, making it a must-visit for music lovers and history buffs alike. The Mendelssohn-Haus provides a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the genius of one of Leipzig's most famous residents.

A brief summary to Mendelssohn-Haus

Local tips

  • Attend a Sunday matinee concert in the music salon to experience chamber music in the tradition of the Mendelssohn family.
  • Explore the exhibits dedicated to Fanny Hensel and Kurt Masur for a broader understanding of Mendelssohn's musical context and legacy.
  • Check the museum's website for special events, guided tours, and workshops for children and young people.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Leipzig Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take tram lines 4, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 51, 56, N10 or N17 to the Augustusplatz stop. Alternatively, take tram lines 4, 7, 12, 15 or N17 to the Johannisplatz stop. From either stop, it's a short walk to Goldschmidtstraße 12. A single tram ticket costs approximately €3.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to the Mendelssohn-Haus will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €10-€16. Taxi rates in Leipzig start at €3.50, with an additional €2.50 per kilometer.

  • Walking

    From Augustusplatz, walk east along Grimmaische Straße, then turn right onto Goldschmidtstraße. The Mendelssohn-Haus is located at Goldschmidtstraße 12, on the right-hand side. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that the Mendelssohn-Haus is located in a pedestrian zone with limited parking. The nearest parking garages are Q-Park Augustusplatz and Q-Park Das Lebendige Haus. Parking fees typically range from €2.00 per hour to €24.00 per day.

Unlock the Best of Mendelssohn-Haus

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mendelssohn-Haus

The Mendelssohn-Haus, nestled in Leipzig's city center, stands as a testament to the life and legacy of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, one of the Romantic era's most influential composers. This meticulously restored building, located at Goldschmidtstraße 12, is not only the last surviving residence of Mendelssohn but also the world's only museum dedicated to his life and work. Built in 1844, the house exudes the charm of the late Classicism period, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the world in which Mendelssohn lived and created. Mendelssohn, his wife Cécile, and their five children called this house home from 1845 until his untimely death in 1847 at the age of 38. Today, the Mendelssohn-Haus serves as a vibrant cultural center, celebrating Mendelssohn's multifaceted contributions as a composer, conductor, pianist, and cultural figure. The heart of the Mendelssohn-Haus is the faithfully reconstructed apartment on the first floor. Painstaking attention to detail has been given to recreate the atmosphere of the Mendelssohn family's living space, furnished in the Biedermeier style. Visitors can explore Mendelssohn's study, where he composed some of his most famous works, including the oratorio "Elijah." The magnificent music salon, which hosted prominent visitors like Clara and Robert Schumann, Richard Wagner, and Hans Christian Andersen, continues to host concerts every Sunday, echoing the musical gatherings of the past. The museum's collection includes original manuscripts, letters, and watercolors by Mendelssohn, providing invaluable insights into his creative process and personal life. Family-owned furniture and other personal objects further enhance the sense of intimacy and connection with the composer. One can almost imagine Mendelssohn himself at his desk, composing melodies that would captivate audiences for generations to come. In addition to the main apartment, the Mendelssohn-Haus features exhibits dedicated to other significant figures in Mendelssohn's life and legacy. The second floor houses a permanent exhibition on Fanny Hensel, Mendelssohn's equally talented sister, who was also a gifted composer and pianist. Despite facing societal constraints that limited her opportunities, Fanny made significant contributions to the musical world, and her story is now being recognized and celebrated. The museum also pays tribute to Kurt Masur, the renowned conductor who played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Mendelssohn's music. Masur served as the Kapellmeister of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra for 26 years and was a passionate advocate for Mendelssohn's legacy. The Kurt Masur Institute, located within the Mendelssohn-Haus, maintains an extensive archive of Masur's life and work, offering further insights into the conductor's profound impact on the musical world. The Mendelssohn-Haus offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year, including guided tours, concerts, and educational programs for children and adults. The museum's garden and café provide a tranquil space for visitors to relax and reflect on their experience. The museum shop offers a selection of books, CDs, and souvenirs related to Mendelssohn and his music. The Mendelssohn-Haus is more than just a museum; it is a living tribute to a musical genius and a vibrant cultural center that continues to inspire and educate. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or simply curious about history and culture, a visit to the Mendelssohn-Haus is an enriching and unforgettable experience. It is a place where the past comes alive, and the legacy of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy continues to resonate with audiences around the world. The Mendelssohn-Haus is easily accessible by public transportation. Several tram lines stop at Augustusplatz, which is just a short walk from the museum. For those arriving by car, parking is available in nearby parking garages. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and admission fees are reasonably priced, with discounts available for students, seniors, and Leipzig Card holders. A visit to the Mendelssohn-Haus is an opportunity to step into the world of a musical genius, to experience the atmosphere of his home, and to appreciate the enduring power of his music. It is a journey through time, a celebration of creativity, and a testament to the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore this remarkable museum and discover the magic of Mendelssohn.

Popular Experiences near Mendelssohn-Haus

Popular Hotels near Mendelssohn-Haus

Select Currency