Rathaus

In the heart of Oberhausen, a city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands the impressive Rathaus, known locally as Rathaus Oberhausen. This architectural gem, completed in 1930, has been the seat of the city’s council and administration for nearly a century. Its striking design and rich history make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Oberhausen.

The History of Rathaus Oberhausen

The story of Rathaus Oberhausen begins in the early 20th century when the city's rapid growth demanded a larger and more modern administrative building. The original town hall, constructed in 1873/74, quickly became inadequate. By the early 1900s, plans for a new Rathaus were already in motion. An architectural competition held in 1910 was won by Friedrich Pützer, whose design led to the construction of the first savings bank building in Oberhausen in 1911. However, the outbreak of World War I and Pützer's untimely death in 1922 delayed the realization of his vision for the new Rathaus.

It wasn't until the late 1920s that the project gained momentum again, thanks to the persistence of Mayor Otto Havenstein and the technical alderman Eduard Jüngerich. In 1927, Ludwig Freitag, a student of Pützer and head of the city's building department, presented a new design that incorporated some of his mentor's ideas. Construction proceeded swiftly, and by October 15, 1928, the topping-out ceremony was celebrated. The Rathaus was completed in March 1930 and officially inaugurated on May 20, 1930, during a special session of the city council. This event also marked the introduction of Wilhelm Heuser as the first mayor of Groß-Oberhausen, a newly formed city created by merging Oberhausen with Sterkrade and Osterfeld.

Architectural Marvel

The Rathaus Oberhausen is an outstanding example of Brick Expressionism and the New Building style, characterized by its expressive contrasts between light natural stone and dark brick. The building's design avoids historical elements, instead drawing inspiration from the Tuscan communal palace typology, similar to the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. The structure's unique appeal lies in the interplay of various building blocks of different heights, some projecting and others receding, creating a dynamic and visually engaging facade.

The main front of the Rathaus, approximately 100 meters wide, faces west towards the Grillopark, with which it is connected by terraces and open staircases. This integration of architecture and landscape is considered by some experts to be a complete work of art. The facade is further enlivened by arcades on the south side, tall windows, and a broad balcony of the council chamber, flanked by two limestone sculptures by the sculptor Adam Antes.

Inside the Rathaus

Upon entering the Rathaus, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase leading to the council chamber on the second floor. This politically significant room boasts a recently restored stucco ceiling in the style of Expressionism and a large window arrangement with a balcony, making it a prominent feature of the main facade. The council chamber's interior design, also by Ludwig Freitag, reflects the architectural trends of the time and adds to the building's historical value.

During World War II, the Rathaus sustained some damage, but it was quickly repaired after the war. However, the old town hall was severely damaged and subsequently demolished in 1946. An emergency extension built during the war was also removed in 1957, following the completion of the east wing, which expanded the new Rathaus.

Modern Day Rathaus

In the year 2000, the technical departments and offices were relocated to the so-called Technical Rathaus, a former administrative building of the Gutehoffnungshütte in the Sterkrade district. This building, like the main Rathaus, features one of the few remaining active paternoster elevators, adding a touch of historical charm to its modern-day functionality.

In 2004, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Groß-Oberhausen, the Grillopark was restored to its original state, highlighting the city's Park City concept. This restoration not only enhanced the park's beauty but also reinforced the historical and cultural significance of the Rathaus and its surroundings.

A Must-Visit Landmark

Today, Rathaus Oberhausen stands as a testament to the city's resilience and architectural innovation. Its rich history, striking design, and the seamless blend of architecture and landscape make it a fascinating destination for tourists and architecture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're exploring the grand council chamber, admiring the facade's intricate details, or strolling through the restored Grillopark, a visit to the Rathaus Oberhausen offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and present.

In conclusion, Rathaus Oberhausen is not just a building; it is a symbol of Oberhausen's growth, history, and architectural prowess. Its walls tell stories of a city that has evolved over the decades, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting this vibrant German city.