Antique Temple, Neoclassical mausoleum in Sanssouci Park, Potsdam, Germany
Description
The Antique Temple is a neoclassical mausoleum with a circular footprint supported by ten Tuscan columns beneath a 16-meter dome. Inside, gray Silesian marble walls display tiers of brackets holding antique busts arranged across three levels.
History
Frederick the Great had this structure built between 1768 and 1769 under architect Carl von Gontard's direction as a display space for his classical art collection. After his death, the building was repurposed, and from 1921 onward it served as a burial vault for House of Hohenzollern members.
Culture
The name refers to its original purpose as a repository for Frederick's ancient art collection. From outside, visitors can appreciate the classical design that echoes Roman temple architecture.
Practical
The building sits within Sanssouci Park and is easy to reach by walking the park pathways. Since it remains closed to visitors, you can only photograph and admire the exterior from the outside.
Did you know?
A rear annex to the temple once housed a special Coin Chamber containing over 9,200 coins and more than 4,300 engraved gems from Frederick's personal collection. These objects reveal how deeply the king was invested in ancient and numismatic treasures.
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