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.
