Weekly Review Jena: Fire at Grüne Tanne, Closure in Goethe-Galerie, and New Start at Kaffee-Salon

Jena, 18.05.2026. A storage shed destroyed by fire at the historic Grüne Tanne, the end for a traditional business in the city center, and a gastronomic restart at the alter Güterbahnhof: An overview of the events of the past few days in Jena.

  • Fire: A shed used for storage at the Grüne Tanne was destroyed by fire.
  • Business Closure: The family business “Jeans Nicklas” in the Goethe-Galerie is closing after 30 years.
  • Gastronomy: A Bulgarian family is taking over the Kaffee-Salon at the alter Güterbahnhof.

Fire Department Operation at Grüne Tanne

A fire occurred in the area of the traditional inn Grüne Tanne. A shed, which served as a storage facility on the premises, fell victim to the flames. The structure was completely destroyed by the fire.

End of an Era in the Goethe-Galerie

A turning point in Jena’s retail landscape is imminent in the Goethe-Galerie: After three decades, the clothing store “Jeans Nicklas” is ceasing operations. The owner family from Rudolstadt, who built a success story selling “blue goods” in Jena after the reunification, is now clearing the shelves for good. The clearance sale for the location has already begun.

New Concept at the alter Güterbahnhof

Meanwhile, there is positive news from Jena’s gastronomy scene. The popular Kaffee-Salon at the alter Güterbahnhof has found new operators. A Bulgarian family is venturing a new start here and expanding the previous offerings. In the future, in addition to the regular customers, new guests are to be attracted with a breakfast menu starting at 9 a.m., homemade cakes, and fresh waffles.

Background: Historical and Vibrant Locations in Jena

The Goethe-Galerie has shaped the image of Jena as the largest inner-city shopping arcade since the mid-1990s and is a central point of contact for retail. The Grüne Tanne on the banks of the Saale, however, is of particular historical importance: The inn is considered the founding site of the Urburschenschaft in 1815. The alter Güterbahnhof, in turn, has transformed in recent years into a lively quarter with event spaces, gastronomy, and small businesses, attracting a younger audience in particular.


Source:

“It’s incredible”: A queue, a fire, and a message from Böttcher AG

Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.


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