Ekhof-Theater, Palace theatre in Friedenstein Castle, Gotha, Germany
The Ekhof-Theater contains original stage technology from the 17th century, with wooden machinery operated manually for scene transformations during performances.
Built between 1681 and 1683 under Duke Friedrich I of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg, the theater was first used by members of the ducal family for educational purposes.
In 1775, Duke Ernst II established one of Germany's first court theaters with a permanent ensemble, where actors received regular salaries for their performances.
The theater seats 165 visitors on the ground floor and first balcony, while the second balcony remains closed to the general public.
During renovation work in 2023, workers discovered a message in a bottle from 1891 hidden within the theater's structure.
Location: Gotha
Official opening: 1683
Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access
Part of: Friedenstein Castle
Website: http://ekhof-theater.de
GPS coordinates: 50.94500,10.70422
Latest update: March 25, 2025 19:49
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