Roter Bau

The Roter Bau, a striking red-brick edifice in Biberach an der Riss, Baden-Württemberg, stands as a testament to the town's rich history and evolving purpose. This cultural monument, with its symmetrical design and storied past, invites visitors to delve into a narrative that intertwines architecture, community care, and historical resilience.

The Origins of Roter Bau

The story of Roter Bau begins in the late 19th century when master carpenter and ornamental manufacturer Carl Friedrich Neff envisioned a grand structure. Originally planned as a larger complex, the building was intended to serve as a convent for the Congregation of Christian Charity of the Third Order of St. Francis, established in Ehingen in 1846. However, only the south wing was completed, leaving the ambitious project unfinished.

Designed by district architect Carl Josef Banholzer, the building was completed in 1868. It briefly served as the motherhouse for the congregation, known as the Franciscan Sisters of Reute, before they relocated during the Franco-Prussian War. During this time, Roter Bau transformed into a wartime hospital, accommodating 100 beds and staffed by 20 sisters from Reute.

A Versatile Past

Following its stint as a hospital, Roter Bau's purpose shifted once more. It became a women's work school and the headquarters for Carl Neff's art embroidery company. In 1876, the Hospital zum Heiligen Geist acquired the building, repurposing it as a new hospital and later as a retirement home. The addition of clock gables in 1898/99 added a distinctive touch to its architectural profile.

Roter Bau also housed various facilities over the years, including rooms for autopsies, cells for the mentally ill, and a mortuary. After a fire destroyed the poorhouse and smallpox hospital near the Magdalenenkirche in 1887, these patients found refuge within its walls.

Roter Bau's Modern Role

In 1970, the town council contemplated demolishing Roter Bau as part of a redevelopment plan for the Bürgerheim complex. However, the building was spared and found new life in 1980 as temporary office space for municipal departments. By 1989, it had transitioned to a residential facility, accommodating late repatriates, asylum seekers, and the homeless.

The building underwent a significant renovation between 2014 and 2016, costing approximately 4.9 million euros. This restoration allowed Roter Bau to enter a new chapter as the home of the Biberach City Archive and the Wieland Archive of the Wieland Foundation, preserving the town's historical documents and literary heritage.

Architectural Features

Roter Bau's architectural charm lies in its robust red-brick construction, a characteristic feature of 19th-century design in Upper Swabia. Although the original plans for a larger complex were never realized, the existing structure exudes a sense of completeness and historical gravitas.

The building's symmetrical layout and decorative elements, such as the clock gables, reflect the meticulous craftsmanship of its era. Its enduring presence on the corner of Waldseer Straße and Königsbergallee, opposite the Biberach Employment Agency, makes it a prominent landmark.

Visiting Roter Bau

Today, Roter Bau stands as more than just a historical building; it's a symbol of Biberach's adaptability and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the archives housed within, offering insights into the region's past and the life of the renowned poet Christoph Martin Wieland.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply curious about Biberach's evolution, Roter Bau provides a unique glimpse into a building that has served many purposes over the decades. Its walls tell stories of care, resilience, and transformation, making it an essential stop on any tour of this charming German town.

In conclusion, Roter Bau is not just a piece of architecture; it's a living narrative of Biberach's history. Its ability to adapt and serve the community in various capacities over the years is a testament to its significance. As you wander through its halls, you become part of its ongoing story, connecting with the past while looking toward the future.