The oldest secular structure in the city, the old town hall was already in use in 1303, where banquets were held. The oldest extant parts of the building date from 1410. By the mid-nineteenth century, however, the requirements of city administration outstripped the capacity of the structure; and as plans were being made to build a new city hall, the old city has was slated for demolition. A citizens’ initiative preserved the edifice, and from 1877-1891 the outside was remodeled, under the direction of the Conrad Wilhelm Hase, in the style of sixteenth century German civic buildings, complete with Gothic gables and  red brick facing.

Though heavily damaged by aerial bombing in World War Two, the old  city hall has been restored to its former glory.

more to come...