Ernst-Abbe-Denkmal

The Ernst-Abbe-Denkmal is a stone memorial on Carl-Zeiss-Platz with eight sides and four entrance porticos facing outward. Inside sits a marble bust of the physicist surrounded by bronze relief panels showing work scenes, while a large domed skylight brings daylight into the interior space.

The monument was built between 1908 and 1911 to honor Ernst Abbe, a physicist whose work shaped Jena. Local residents funded its creation to recognize his contributions to science and industry in the region.

The monument brings together work by three prominent artists: Van de Velde designed the building, Klinger created the marble bust, and Meunier made the bronze relief panels. The images on the walls show mining, farming, and factory work, reflecting what Abbe represented for working people.

The memorial sits on a central plaza in the city and is visible from outside, but the interior is not regularly open to visitors. Check with local cultural offices if you want to see inside, as access happens only during special occasions.

The four bronze panels inside show mining, harvesting, harbor work, and factory labor and were originally designed for a different monument. They ended up here and give the space an unexpected industrial focus that goes beyond simply honoring one person.