The funding for the construction of a new reception building at the Karl May Museum in Radebeul has been secured. The town council announced that it has received a grant from the federal government for around 2.7 million euros. The state of Saxony is supporting the construction with roughly the same amount, while the city of Radebeul is contributing one million euros. The foundation stone was originally due to be laid this year. The museum's website states 2026 as the year of completion. The renovation of the "Villa Bärenfett" is also due to begin in the same year.
Karl May was born in Hohenstein-Ernstthal (Zwickau district) in 1842 and lived in Radebeul from 1888 until his death in 1912. Museums in both towns commemorate his life and work. The "Villa Shatterhand", which he acquired in 1895, and the "Bärenfett" villa, built in 1926, form the museum. It was established on the initiative of Karl May's second wife Klara (1864-1944). The museum was opened in 1928 with the collection of Native American friend Patty Frank, which has been preserved to this day. Around 800 of the approximately 4,000 exhibits are on display.
