Goethe’s House in Rome: a journey through dreams, art and a bit of nostalgia

A few years ago, during one of my Roman ‘escapes’, if I am not mistaken, to see the Gribouilliage exhibition, I decided to slip into a small but fascinating museum: the Goethe House. I admit, it wasn’t on my initial ‘must see’ list, but when I found out that Johann Wolfgang Goethe had lived there during his Grand Tour, I couldn’t resist.
In short, how could I not give in to the temptation to see where the German genius was enchanted by Rome and Italy?

WHY VISIT GOETHE’S HOUSE (EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT A FAN OF GERMAN POETRY)

You might think, ‘But I care little for Goethe’.
I understand you, but here the question is broader. To visit the Goethe House is not just to enter the world of a poet, but to enter the travel diary of a bygone era, where every room whispers stories of discovery, wonder and love of art.
When I entered, I found myself wandering among the drawings, letters and thoughts of those who, from Italy, were inspired to change European literature.

I confess one thing: as I walked through those rooms, I wondered how many of us, like Goethe, have dreamt of finding inspiration by getting lost in a new place. He found it by observing Rome not just as a city, but as a muse. And the funny thing is, by visiting this museum, you end up doing the same.

What to see in Goethe’s House: art, letters and ingenious little details

The living room is the heart of the house, the place where Goethe slept, wrote and probably dreamed.
The room has been restored to let us imagine what everyday life was like for an elite traveller in the 18th century.

Then there is the permanent collection with drawings, watercolours and sketches made during his trip to Italy. You will be surprised to discover that Goethe was not only a writer but also had an eye for visual art.

The private letters: this part of the museum is a bit like reading the WhatsApp chats of a friend during a trip (with the difference that here we are talking about poetic epistolary). Through his letters, you understand how deeply Italy marked him.

Because the House of Goethe is also a little bit our home

You don’t have to be a literary scholar to get excited here. Goethe House has that magical power that only certain authentic places can convey, making you feel part of a timeless journey. Perhaps, as you look out the window overlooking the bustling Via del Corso, you ask yourself: ‘What is my Grand Tour today?’.
Because let’s face it: everyone, at least once, has needed a trip to find themselves.

Practical information for visiting the Goethe House

Where it is: Via del Corso, 18, Rome

Hours: Always check the official website, but it is usually open Tuesday to Sunday.

Tickets: The price is almost symbolic for a journey through history!
Full details can be found on the museum’s official website: casadigoethe.en

Visiting this museum is an experience to be had at least once in a lifetime!

If you are in Rome, treat yourself to an hour of exploration in this little hidden gem. It is not as crowded as the big museums, but that is the beauty of it. It is an intimate place that speaks directly to you, like an old friend who has just read an incredible book and wants to share with you the magic he found between the pages.

Oh, and before you leave, don’t forget to have a look at the museum bookshop: you might discover the next book to take with you on your personal Grand Tour.

Find out what else you can see in Rome and plan your visit to the Eternal City.