A sculptural landmark in cast concrete — home of the General Anthroposophical Society and its School of Spiritual Science.
Discover the buildingSet on a hill in Dornach, near Basel, the Goetheanum is the international centre of the anthroposophical movement founded by Rudolf Steiner. Named after the poet and natural scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, it brings together a stage, meeting halls, studios and the sections of a school of research — a place where art, science and spiritual striving are meant to meet under one roof.
The first Goetheanum was an extraordinary double-domed structure built largely of wood, completed around 1919. It was destroyed by fire on the night of New Year's Eve 1922–23.
Rudolf Steiner responded by designing a second building — this time in moulded, cast concrete — turning a fireproof material into flowing, organic form. Steiner died in 1925, before its completion, and the building was finished and opened in 1928. It remains a landmark of expressionist and organic architecture.
Rather than straight lines and right angles, the façades curve, fold and taper — an attempt to let a building grow like a living, metamorphosing form in Goethe's sense.
The building is a living centre of performance, research and encounter.
Performances of eurythmy, the mystery dramas, and works such as Goethe's Faust are staged in the Great Hall.
Sections for the natural sciences, medicine, agriculture, mathematics & astronomy, education, the arts and more pursue anthroposophical research.
Conferences, seminars and gatherings draw visitors and members from around the world throughout the year.
The hill is dotted with other Steiner-designed buildings and gardens, open to those who come to walk and explore.
The Goetheanum welcomes visitors to explore its architecture, attend performances and take part in its programme. Guided tours and a café are typically available on site.
Address
Rüttiweg 45, 4143 Dornach, Switzerland
Getting there
A short journey from Basel by tram and bus.
For current opening hours, tickets and the events calendar, see the official site: goetheanum.org