Schaezlerpalais, Augsburg

Palace in Augsburg

Schaezlerpalais
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Gerd Eichmann

Tucked within the heart of Augsburg's Old Town, the Schaezlerpalais is one of the must-see places in Augsburg, combining artistic splendor, architectural grace, and historical charm. Built in the 18th century for banker Benedikt Adam Freiherr von Liebert, the palace once hosted emperors and aristocrats, and today welcomes visitors into its richly adorned halls and grand galleries. Its crowning glory, the Goldener Saal — or Golden Hall — shimmers with gilded stucco, frescoed ceilings, and mirrored walls, earning its place among the most beautiful Rococo interiors in Europe.

The palace is more than just a feast for the eyes; it's a window into Augsburg's golden age of art and commerce. With its intimate courtyards, hidden gardens, and world-class art collection, this is a highlight of any walking tour of Augsburg and a perfect stop for lovers of Baroque and Rococo design.

History and Significance of Schaezlerpalais

Constructed between 1764 and 1770, the Schaezlerpalais was designed by architect Carl Albert von Lespilliez for a wealthy Augsburg banker whose family was deeply involved in trade and finance during the city's peak economic era. The palace served as a private residence and social venue for the elite, showcasing the wealth and artistic taste of Augsburg's merchant class. Its Rococo design, characterized by lightness, fluid ornamentation, and theatrical flair, reflected the cosmopolitan influences of the time.

In later centuries, the palace changed hands and purposes before being gifted to the city of Augsburg. Today, it serves as a museum and cultural center, preserving both the artistic heritage of the city and the legacy of Augsburg's role as a cultural crossroads in Europe. Its survival through wars and urban development makes it one of the top sights in Augsburg for architecture and history enthusiasts.

Things to See and Do in Schaezlerpalais

The undisputed highlight of the palace is the Goldener Saal, an exquisite ballroom that dazzles with mirrors, gilded reliefs, and a breathtaking ceiling fresco celebrating mythological and allegorical scenes. Sunlight streaming through the tall windows transforms the room into a glowing sea of gold and pastel hues — a photographer’s dream.

Beyond the Golden Hall, the palace houses the Bavarian State Gallery, which includes one of Germany's most significant collections of Baroque paintings, with works by masters such as Rubens, van Dyck, and Tiepolo. Visitors can also explore the German Baroque Gallery and the Karl and Magdalene Haberstock Collection, featuring sculpture, portraiture, and decorative arts. For a peaceful escape, the adjoining garden offers a tranquil space framed by elegant arcades and fountains — one of the things to do in Augsburg if you're seeking both beauty and calm.

How to Get There

Schaezlerpalais is centrally located on Maximilianstraße in Augsburg's Old Town, just a short walk from the Rathausplatz and the Augsburg City Hall. From Augsburg Hauptbahnhof (main station), it’s about a 15-minute walk or a short tram ride (Line 1 toward Lechhausen, stop at “Moritzplatz”). Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Paid parking is available at the City-Galerie or Ernst-Reuter-Platz garages, though the palace is best explored on foot as part of a stroll through the city’s historic center. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Schaezlerpalais

  • Best time to visit Schaezlerpalais: Morning or early afternoon when the Golden Hall is illuminated by natural light.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around €4 for adults; discounted tickets available for students and groups.
  • Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; closed Mondays.
  • Official website: www.augsburg.de/schaezlerpalais
  • How long to spend: 1–1.5 hours to explore both the palace and its art collections.
  • Accessibility: Most rooms are accessible via elevator; some older sections have steps and uneven floors.
  • Facilities: Cloakroom, restrooms, and small gift shop.
  • Photography tip: Use the balcony of the Golden Hall to capture the symmetry of its mirrored walls.
  • Guided tours: Available in German and English; check schedules at the ticket desk.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and restaurants along Maximilianstraße offering Bavarian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Is Schaezlerpalais Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Schaezlerpalais is one of the top attractions in Augsburg, offering a rare chance to experience the grandeur of 18th-century Rococo architecture up close. Its dazzling Golden Hall alone justifies the visit, while the surrounding art galleries and gardens add depth and serenity. Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply curious about Augsburg's cultural past, the palace offers an unforgettable glimpse into the elegance of bygone eras.

Nearby Attractions to Schaezlerpalais

  • Augsburg City Hall – Home to the magnificent Golden Hall and one of Europe's finest Renaissance façades.
  • Fuggerei – The world's oldest social housing complex, founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger.
  • Augsburg Cathedral – A Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece with some of Germany's oldest stained glass.
  • Maximilianstraße – The city's elegant main boulevard lined with fountains, boutiques, and cafés.
  • Rotes Tor – A medieval red-brick gate surrounded by gardens and a popular venue for open-air events.

The Schaezlerpalais appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Augsburg!

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Visiting Schaezlerpalais

Hours:

Tues 10am–8pm; Wed–Sun 10am–5pm

Price:

Admission 7€ adults, 5.50€ for students, children 9 and under free

Address: Schaezlerpalais, Maximilianstraße, Augsburg, Germany
Augsburg: 1 km

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