Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse

In the heart of Mulhouse, France, stands an architectural gem that embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of the city: the Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse. This Renaissance-style town hall, locally known as the Rothüss, is not just a municipal building but a historical monument that has witnessed centuries of political and social transformations. Its vibrant façade and intricate decorations make it one of the most striking landmarks in Mulhouse, attracting visitors from around the world.

A Journey Through History

The story of the Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse begins in 1308 when Mulhouse was declared a free imperial city. By 1354, the city had allied with other Alsatian cities to form the Décapole, a league that granted them significant autonomy. The original town hall, constructed in 1432, served as the administrative center for this burgeoning city-state. However, a devastating fire in 1551 reduced the building to ashes.

Undeterred, the citizens of Mulhouse embarked on the reconstruction of their town hall in 1552. Under the guidance of Basel stone mason Michel Lynthumer, the new building rose from the ashes, showcasing the elegant and ornate style of the Rhenish Renaissance. The building's gabled façade, adorned with scrolls and a slightly off-center double staircase crowned with a bell tower, became a symbol of the city's rebirth and resilience. The renowned artist Christophe Bock painted the building in rich hues of red and gold, earning it the admiration of visitors like Montaigne, who described it as a magnificent and golden palace during his travels in 1580.

Architectural Marvels

The exterior of the Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse is a visual feast, with its trompe-l'œil decorations that exemplify the Renaissance's artistic flair. These painted illusions depict allegorical figures representing virtues such as Justice, Courage, Temperance, Faith, and Charity, reflecting the values upheld by the city's governance. The façade also features the coats of arms of the Swiss cantons, a nod to Mulhouse's historical alliances.

Among the many fascinating elements of the building is the Klapperstein, or chatter stone, located on the right side of the town hall. This stone, shaped like a human head with wide eyes and a protruding tongue, was used to punish gossips and slanderers. Those condemned to this punishment had to parade through the city with the heavy stone hanging around their necks, a practice that continued until Mulhouse joined France in 1798.

The Interior: A Glimpse into the Past

Stepping inside the Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse is like traveling back in time. The building comprises four levels, each with its unique charm and historical significance. The ground floor houses the Salle de la Décapole, which can be accessed through a door beneath the grand double staircase. Today, this room serves as the entrance to the historical museum of Mulhouse.

Ascending the staircase, visitors arrive at the vestibule on the first floor, where the ceiling is adorned with intricate frescoes of Roman emperors and floral motifs. This area also features a grand sideboard and a marquetry-decorated washbasin from the 16th century, along with portraits of former mayors.

To the left of the vestibule lies the Salle du Grand Conseil, where the city's councilors and mayors once deliberated. This room, still used for municipal meetings, boasts a coffered ceiling, mullioned windows, sculpted columns, stained glass, and painted decorations, including the coats of arms of Swiss cantons and the crests of past mayors. A stone-framed safe also resides here, adding to the room's historical ambiance.

The second floor is home to a room with ceilings painted with intricate scrollwork, housing the permanent collections of the historical museum. The top floor, once used as a granary for storing food in times of famine, now hosts temporary exhibitions, continuing the building's legacy as a place of community and culture.

A Monument of Historical Significance

The Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse is not just a beautiful building; it is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Recognized for its historical and architectural value, the building has been listed as a historical monument since June 18, 1929, and classified since July 21, 1961. Its preservation ensures that future generations can continue to admire and learn from this remarkable structure.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Hôtel de ville de Mulhouse offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its walls, adorned with centuries-old art and symbolism, tell the story of a city that has stood the test of time, making it a must-visit destination in Mulhouse.