Since 1074, the monastery of Peter and Paul stood on the fortress hill. In the 13th century, the Dukes of Merania built a castle complex here, which was steadily expanded over time. After 1531, the Electors of Saxony developed it into a state fortress- the southernmost bulwark of the House of Wettin in Franconia.

During the Thirty Years’ War, the Veste was besieged twice; in 1635, it was temporarily handed over to imperial troops through a ruse.

In the centuries that followed, the fortress also served as a prison and hospital. As it no longer met the demands of modern military technology, it lost its status as a fortress in 1820. However, the name “Veste” remained part of its designation.

By 1923, the complex had undergone renovation, with architect Bodo Ebhard striving for historical accuracy and monument preservation.

Since 1919, the fortress has been state property. Today, it houses the important 'Art Collections of the Veste Coburg.'

Duke Johann Casimir (1564–1633), Duke of Saxe-Coburg

His father was Johann Friedrich the Middle, Duke of Saxony (1529–1595), who was outlawed and imprisoned by Emperor Maximilian II. His son, Johann Casimir, received the Duchy of Saxe-Coburg, which he ruled from 1586 to 1633.

He led Coburg into the modern era by modernizing administration and the judiciary, and by curbing the privileges of the local nobility.

His special achievement was the founding of a high state school, today's Casimirianum Gymnasium. For administration, military affairs, and education, he commissioned significant Renaissance buildings: the Town Hall, the Armory, and the Casimirianum.

Casimir was very fond of life, a passionate drinker and marksman.

A dark shadow over his memory is that during his reign, Coburg experienced the peak of witch hunts.