Why go
The building was made for short excursions, hunting and festivities rather than long residential stays. Its sweeping staircases and small roof towers express that lighter courtly role. Consider it for architectural and historical context, with access checked separately before planning any visit around the palace or park.
What to look for
- The Baroque exterior is symmetrical, with two sweeping staircases.
- Small roof towers rise above the compact pleasure palace.
- The palace occupies an elevated position north of the Residence Palace, connected to it by an avenue.
The full story
Favorite was built from 1717 to 1723 for Duke Eberhard Ludwig, following designs by Donato Giuseppe Frisoni. Its role was different from that of the Residence Palace nearby. Balls, dinners, theatrical entertainment and fireworks made it a setting for special occasions and short escapes from the main court. That purpose helps explain the compact, symmetrical design and the prominent staircases. The building presents itself as a place for arrival and display, while its raised position and connecting avenue keep it visually tied to the larger estate. A later transformation came under King Friedrich I. From 1806, the park became a menagerie, and Nikolaus Friedrich von Thouret remodelled the interior in a neoclassical style. Favorite therefore carries more than one phase of royal taste, even though its Baroque exterior remains the clearest expression of its original pleasure-palace role.
Useful to know
- Check palace and park access separately before making a detour.
Your next visit
Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.
Indoor visit · 30–45 min
World planning estimate; admission, opening, visit duration and access need checking.