Schaezlerpalais (Schaezler Palace), Augsburg

Schaezler Palace is a prime example of a well-preserved 18th-century private residence and commercial building. Originally built for the banker Benedikt Adam Freiherr von Liebert, the palace façade on Maximilianstrasse is relatively modest at 19 meters, contrasting sharply with the 107-meter stretch along Katharinengasse. The site has a history dating back to 1346, with significant developments, including a building commissioned in 1499 by Philipp Adler, an Imperial Councillor. Notably, this building hosted Emperor Maximilian I on several occasions.

Throughout its history, the palace has changed hands, becoming part of various prominent families like the Welser, Rehlingen, Sulzer, and Stetten. By 1951, the city's art collections were housed here, initially rented, and since 2006, after a thorough renovation, it has fully opened its doors to the public. The Schaezler Palace now serves as a hub for art lovers, featuring the German Baroque Gallery on the first floor, showcasing works primarily by Augsburg artists from the 17th and 18th centuries, including famous names like Rubens, van Dyck, and Tiepolo. The second floor frequently hosts special exhibitions under the Augsburg Art Collections & Museums banner.

The palace is also famous for its Rococo ballroom, an ornate space that once hosted Marie Antoinette in 1770. Connected to this is the State Gallery of Old Masters, which includes works by Dürer, Holbein the Elder, and Cranach the Elder. On the ground floor, visitors can explore part of the Steiner Collection, known for its reverse glass paintings, and relax in the café and Liebert Room. Outside, the Rococo garden, redesigned in 2005 based on historical layouts, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Augsburg, accessible even to those not visiting the museum.