Impressions from the exhibition in the Arabian Coffee Tree Museum

From kaffeeklatsch to world market policy 

The »Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum« museum in the heart of the old city centre was one of the first coffee houses in Europe. Since 1711, the Saxons’ favourite hot beverage has been served here. The impressive sculpture above the portal illustrates an important era in the history of coffee culture and gave the building its name. 

Throughout the centuries, the »Coffe Baum« has always attracted famous guests, such as the writer Johann Christoph Gottsched or the composer Robert Schumann. During the GDR era, the members of the artists’ café (founded in 1978) met here and, later, celebrities, like Maximilian Schell, Mario Adorf, Bill Clinton, and Kurt Masur, also visited the historic coffee house.

The »Coffe Baum« has always provided nourishment for body and mind. In the 16 historic rooms of the museum, you can now discover the history of coffee: From the strict 18th century coffee house rules to the massive coffee crisis in the GDR and from the impact of colonialism to global trade relations today, the history of coffee is multifaceted. During your visit, you will meet Augustus the Strong and Johann Sebastian Bach - as well as the famous coffee-loving Saxons and their »Bliemchengaffee«. En route, you can also discover Melitta Bentz’ coffee filters and the legendary »Mokka Efti« coffee maker. We invite you to explore this unique baroque building in the heart of the city.