Jena

Why are we here
The Carl Zeiss company history begins with Carl Zeiss, Ernst Abbe; and Jena. Two universities and numerous research institutes, such as the Frauenhofer, make Jena an ideal location for international companies. This benefits the headquarters of both large business groups Carl Zeiss Meditec and Carl Zeiss Microscopy as well as Carl Zeiss Jena GmbH. As a location for business and science, Jena is at the heart of research in Thuringia and its location in central Germany also offers prime logistical conditions.

Why should you choose us
At Carl Zeiss in Jena, innovation merges with tradition. The young university city on the river Saale combines an urban feel with quality of life and is appealing – not only for students. Optimal conditions for families, a broad cultural offering and excellent academic institutes make the Jena area an attractive place to live.

Attractive landscape

Located in the middle of the Saale valley, Jena is one of Germany's most scenic cities. Limestone mountains up to 400 m high surround the city and shape the area's appearance. Numerous walking trails and monuments associated with nature give Jena's landscape a southern feel.

Thanks to its location in the river basin, Jena is one of the warmest parts of Germany during the summer months. This is evidenced by the fauna in particular. Many types of bird and some rare and endangered bats have adopted the mixed forests around the town as their habitat.

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Historical interest

Heavily influenced by the founding of the Friedrich-Schiller University, Jena has long been deeply rooted in the world of academia and all of the associated history. Follow in the footsteps of Schiller and Goethe, delve into the history of Germany, or discover the "7 Wonders of Jena."

  • experience magical moments at ZEISS Planetarium – the oldest continuously operating planetarium in the world
  • take a long view across the city's roofs from the JenTower
  • follow the trail of poets and philosophers in museum of romantic literature the Romantikhaus or in Schiller's Garden House
  • see it all crystal clear in the SCHOTT factory museum


Shaped by people and by the ages, the history of Jena is astonishingly multi-faceted. Follow the historical trail in the city on the Saale.

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Room to grow

Jena is one of the most family-friendly cities in Germany. This reputation is thanks to its commitment and the numerous social services in relation to the family. House-hunting assistance, housing benefits and special cultural offerings for families are just a few of the features which help new citizens to gain a foothold in this large city with a small-town feel.

  • 60 children's daycare facilities in Jena
  • the Paradise Park in the heart of Jena offers many meadows and sports facilities
  • excellent public transport services as well as access to the Autobahn A4 and A9
  • funding programs for home-owners and social accommodation assistance


Make Jena the new center of your life, and enjoy all the pleasures of a city within a unique natural landscape.

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Culture / Education / Leisure

Jena's cultural offering is young, yet traditional. Places where people shop, stroll and sightsee during the day continue to buzz with life after dark. Festivals, outdoor sports and a diverse nightlife as well as classically-inspired Thuringian cuisine make Jena an attractive destination for both young and old.

 


This student city's numerous bars create a thriving nightlife in Jena – especially during summer, when after sunset the streets of the old town still hum with life. Come to Jena and experience for yourself the unique combination of science and culture!

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