Gotha is a historic city and the former capital of the Duchy of Saxony-Coburg-Gotha. The British Queen Elizabeth II has its roots in the ruling family here. In addition to the historic buildings surrounding the market square, the city also has a magnificent prince's palace surrounded by gardens and one of the oldest English parks in Germany.
The city is situated in the foothills of the Thuringian Forest, one of the most picturesque areas in eastern Germany. The first settlement was established here in the 9th century, and Gotha was granted city rights in the 14th century. The city developed as a thriving trade and craft center, and in the 17th century it became the capital of the Duchy of Saxony-Gotha.
The oldest part of the city is concentrated around the market square, with a characteristic town hall with a red facade. Its tower offers a picturesque panorama of the buildings and the surrounding hills. In the vicinity of the market square, a tangle of narrow streets brings the atmosphere of a medieval town and leads to the late Gothic church of St. Margaret, whose origins date back to the 11th century. In the Old Town, you can also see the House of Luke Cranach, where the famous painter was born, as well as burgher houses from different eras.
Goth's biggest attraction is Friedenstein Castle, the residence of the Dukes of Saxony-Coburg-Goth. You can visit the wonderfully furnished halls and one of the oldest surviving baroque court theaters. The palace now houses the Prince's Museum, which houses a valuable collection of German paintings.
The residence is surrounded by an English-style chateau park. The romantic setting is one of the oldest in Germany. Among the greenery there are objects of small park architecture, such as gazebos, holiday cottages and the Studnitz Pyramid.
