On February 25, 1842, the world-famous adventure writer Karl May was born in Ernstthal, part of today's Hohenstein-Erntthal, in a typical weaver's house in poor conditions. Since 1985, the building has been used as a museum, offering insights into May's life, his childhood and his literary career.

After a long backlog of renovations, the small house was comprehensively renovated by 2015, with the focus on preserving the original components. The house was redesigned in close collaboration with exhibition designers. A special attraction is the faithfully furnished weaver's room, which illustrates everyday life in the mid-19th century.

The museum shows numerous exhibits, including Karl May's personal items, first editions of his books, manuscripts, and items from his travels

The birthplace is not only a memorial to one of the most successful and popular German authors, but also an important cultural and historical place that offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about life in Saxony in the 19th century.

Redesign and historic renovation of Karl May's birthplace in Hohenstein-Ernstthal

Categories: Public, Indoor
Client: Hohenstein-Ernstthal city administration

Design: Matthias Reichold

Services: Property planning, Lph 1 – 9
Project partners: Project service Jens Schmelzer and GRAPICUS
Start of performance: 2012
Completion: 2015