The love of the "coffee Saxons" for the noble black drink is proverbial and they love to enjoy their "Schälchen Heeßen". Robert Schumann, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller all sipped their coffee in the historic "Haus zum Arabischen Coffe Baum" restaurant in Leipzig. The historic building will soon be restored to its former glory.
"The building dates back to the 16th century and the stimulating drink has been served here since 1711. It is considered one of the oldest coffee houses in Europe alongside the Café Procope in Paris and houses in Venice," explained Anselm Hartinger, Director of the Leipzig City History Museum.
The "Coffe Baum" was last closed for five years due to extensive renovation work. "Building services, fire protection and telecommunications are being brought up to date. But the charm inside and out will be retained," said Ansgar Scholz from Messestadt's cultural office. 3.8 million euros were invested, around a quarter of which came from so-called PMO funding. These are assets of the parties and mass organizations of the former GDR, which the East German states and Berlin receive. The reopening is planned for the end of the year.
Then visitors will once again be able to learn about the history of the aromatic drink on the upper floors of the coffee museum. More than 500 exhibits, including coffee grinders, equipment used in the oriental coffee ceremony and old porcelain, will be on display. The famous coffee cantata by Johann Sebastian Bach "Ei, wie schmeckt der Coffe süße" can also be heard again.
The real highlight, however, is the building itself, emphasized exhibition curator Maike Günther. "If you walk through the many small, winding rooms, you can feel the history of coffee." The exhibition is free of charge and can be visited permanently during the opening hours of the building.
Leipzig's Lord Mayor Burkhard Jung has been a frequent guest in the past and is already looking forward to the reopening. "I like the atmosphere here, the semi-public political discussions in a relaxed historical setting." Years ago, he even had a job interview or two in one of the many small niches and numerous discussions in the mayor's circle.
A restaurateur has already been found, explained Ansgar Scholz from the cultural office. "The café will retain its culinary character with cakes and tarts. But there will also be a full menu with hot food." As the city council still has to approve the contract with the new tenant, the name cannot yet be published.
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