Meiningen is a town in southern Thuringia, Germany, located within the Franconia region. With a population of approximately 26,000 as of 2024, it serves as the capital and largest town of the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district.
Meiningen has significant historical importance, having served as the capital of the Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen from 1680 to 1918. Following Germany's defeat in World War I, the duchy was dissolved and the town became the capital of the Free State of Saxe-Meiningen, a position it held until 1920.