Goetheanum
Basel-Landschaft
Located in Dornach near Basel, the Goetheanum serves as the world center for the anthroposophical movement and houses the General Anthroposophical Society. Designed by Rudolf Steiner, it is named after Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and is notable for its pioneering use of sculptural concrete forms that break away from traditional right-angled architecture. The current building, completed in 1928 after the original wooden structure was destroyed by fire, features a 1000-seat auditorium, gallery spaces, a library, and administrative offices. It hosts a vibrant artistic community including theater and eurythmy performances, as well as international conferences for educators, doctors, farmers, and therapists. The building is recognized as a Swiss national monument and is a masterpiece of 20th-century expressionist architecture. Steiner's architectural vision emphasized spiritual expression through organic, flowing forms, and the Goetheanum remains a unique cultural landmark reflecting these principles.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit to coincide with the many conferences and cultural events held year-round, especially performances by the in-house theater and eurythmy troupes. Guided tours are available several times daily, and it is advisable to book tickets in advance for special events. The Goetheanum is open seven days a week, making it accessible for visitors with varied schedules. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Exploring the surrounding buildings of the Anthroposophical Society can enrich the experience.
Interesting facts
- •The Goetheanum was designed by Rudolf Steiner, the founder of anthroposophy, and named after Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
- •The first Goetheanum featured a unique double-dome wooden structure and was considered a Gesamtkunstwerk, integrating multiple art forms.
- •The current building is one of the earliest examples of expressionist architecture using visible cast concrete.
- •Art critic Michael Brennan described the Goetheanum as a 'true masterpiece of 20th-century expressionist architecture.'
- •The building houses a nine-meter-high wooden sculpture "The Representative of Humanity" by Edith Maryon and Rudolf Steiner.
- •Noted architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Frank Gehry have praised the Goetheanum's innovative architecture.
History
The first Goetheanum was constructed between 1913 and 1920 as a timber and concrete structure designed by Rudolf Steiner, serving as a spiritual and artistic center for the Anthroposophical Society.
It was destroyed by fire on New Year's Eve 1922/23, possibly due to arson, though unproven.
Steiner then designed the second Goetheanum, built entirely of cast concrete from 1924 and completed in 1928 after his death.
This building pioneered the use of visible concrete to create organic, sculptural architectural forms.
Over the decades, the Goetheanum has undergone renovations while preserving its original artistic and spiritual intent, and it was declared a Swiss national monument in 1993.
Place Guide
Main Auditorium1928
A 1000-seat auditorium designed for theater and eurythmy performances, central to the Goetheanum's artistic life. It has undergone remodeling in the 1950s and 1990s while retaining its original spirit.
Gallery and Lecture Spaces1928
Spaces dedicated to exhibitions and lectures, supporting the educational and cultural activities of the Anthroposophical Society.
The Representative of Humanity Sculpture1928
A monumental nine-meter-high wooden sculpture created collaboratively by Edith Maryon and Rudolf Steiner, symbolizing spiritual themes central to anthroposophy.
Contact
Phone: 061 706 42 42
