The Johannbau in Dessau is the former Renaissance ducal residence and palace in the centre of town. Today it houses the Museum für Stadtgeschichte Dessau – a Museum of Urban History. There are various exhibitions held each year. Most show an aspect of Dessau’s past, such as its religious or cultural aspects of its history, through artworks and other items. Permanent exhibitions show the chronological history of the town, Jewish life, and the revolution of 1849. The palace is a wonderful building to visit in itself.