Architectural Tour in the Grand House of the State Theater Cottbus: Experience Art Nouveau Up Close


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Art Nouveau to Walk Through: The Grand House of the State Theater Cottbus Unveils Its Secrets
This architectural tour is more than just a look behind the scenes. On May 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM, the tour through and around the Grand House of the State Theater Cottbus leads into a world where Art Nouveau, theater history, and architectural art merge into an impressive stage experience. The building at Schillerplatz is considered a masterpiece of Bernhard Sehring and was opened in 1908 after just 16 months of construction with Lessing's Minna von Barnhelm. ([cmt-cottbus.de](https://www.cmt-cottbus.de/veranstaltungen/oeffentliche-fuehrung-architekturfuehrung-durch-und-um-das-staatstheater-cottbus-48/))
A Theater Building That Plays Itself
Upon entering the Grand House, one experiences a building that is not merely a backdrop but becomes a protagonist itself. Sehring combined architecture, craftsmanship, painting, and sculpture into a total work of art that has not lost its brilliance to this day. The auditorium accommodates 621 seats and offers numerous details for an informative yet atmospheric tour with foyers, sculptures, and the distinctive exterior. ([staatstheater-cottbus.de](https://www.staatstheater-cottbus.de/de/staatstheater/spielstaetten/artikel-grosses-haus.html))
Between Renovation and Remembrance
The history of the building tells of destruction, preservation, and restoration. After the end of the war, the theater remained intact thanks to brave citizens and fortunate circumstances, followed by major renovations and technical updates. Today, the building combines historical patina with vibrant theatrical practice and remains a place where dramaturgy is felt not only on stage but also in the architecture. ([staatstheater-cottbus.de](https://www.staatstheater-cottbus.de/de/staatstheater/spielstaetten/artikel-grosses-haus.html))
Tour Focusing on Space, Light, and Perspective
The public tour highlights the auditorium, foyers, and outdoor areas while focusing on those details that make a building of this format unmistakable. Group sizes are limited, and advance booking is recommended; remaining tickets can be sold on-site on the day of the event. This creates a concentrated stage experience for the audience, bringing together history, materiality, and theatrical atmosphere with exceptional clarity. ([cmt-cottbus.de](https://www.cmt-cottbus.de/veranstaltungen/oeffentliche-fuehrung-architekturfuehrung-durch-und-um-das-staatstheater-cottbus-48/))
Practical Information for Your Visit
The Grand House is located at Schillerplatz 1 in 03046 Cottbus. According to theater information, most venues are barrier-free; the Grand House also features an induction loop for hearing aids. It is recommended to register in advance for visitor services. The tour lasts 90 minutes and is listed in the CMT offering from 9.00 euros. ([cmt-cottbus.de](https://www.cmt-cottbus.de/veranstaltungen/oeffentliche-fuehrung-architekturfuehrung-durch-und-um-das-staatstheater-cottbus-48/))
Conclusion
This architectural tour is worthwhile for those who want to experience theater not just visually but also in the space, in the building, and in its history. The Grand House of the State Theater Cottbus presents itself here as a work of art of significance, as a living memory, and as a proud place of Lusatian culture. Anyone who loves Art Nouveau, architecture, and theatrical atmosphere should mark this date in their calendar. ([cmt-cottbus.de](https://www.cmt-cottbus.de/veranstaltungen/oeffentliche-fuehrung-architekturfuehrung-durch-und-um-das-staatstheater-cottbus-48/))
Official Channels of the State Theater Cottbus:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staatstheatercottbus/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StaatstheaterCottbus/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StaatstheaterCottbus
- Website: https://www.staatstheater-cottbus.de/
Sources:
- CMT Cottbus - Public Tour: Architectural Tour Through and Around the State Theater Cottbus
- State Theater Cottbus - Grand House
- State Theater Cottbus - Venues and Accessibility
- State Theater Cottbus - Homepage
- Theaterkompass - State Theater Cottbus
- miz - State Theater Cottbus
- City Cottbus - State Theater Cottbus










