New technology for the Rosenkeller

The Rosenkeller association is another cultural venue in Jena to benefit from investment and start-up funding from the city. Head of Cultural Affairs Johannes Schleußner today presented a symbolic grant of 5,000 euros to chairman Christian Leis. In September, the city council approved the new funding pot totaling 35,000 euros. The decision to support the Rosenkeller was made in October. This new instrument of municipal cultural funding runs directly through the Department of Education, Youth, Culture and Sport.

"There is great interest in this newly created investment and start-up funding. This shows us how important this form of funding is for Jena's cultural landscape,"

said department head Schleußner.

The Rosenkeller's largest event space, the concert barrel, had been closed since 2015 due to water ingress. According to the organizers, it can now be reopened to guests "after various measures to combat the causes". The hall, known as the "Große Tonne", was opened in 2007 with a capacity for 250 people. Since its closure, up to 200 events have been held in the remaining rooms each year.

The first smaller events have already taken place in the reopened venue. The organizers plan to reopen the "Tonne" for concerts and parties at the beginning of next year. The funding approved by the city will help to equip the room with new sound and lighting technology. The first concert is planned for 09.01.2026.

The Rosenkeller's events are primarily aimed at students. In addition to numerous open events, the association also aims to support marginalized groups and offer them a safe space in the premises. The Rosenkeller is the oldest club still in existence in Jena's city center and the second oldest student club in Germany.