The Duchy of Saxe-Weimar was a historical territory in central Germany, part of the larger Saxony region. Established in the early 16th century, it became a duchy in 1572. The duchy was known for its cultural contributions, particularly during the Weimar Classicism period, which included notable figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller. The duchy was ruled by the House of Wettin and played a significant role in the political landscape of Germany. It underwent various territorial changes over the years and eventually became part of the Grand Duchy of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach in the 19th century.