Drostei

In the heart of Pinneberg, Schleswig-Holstein, stands the Drostei, a magnificent example of North German Rococo architecture. This stately city palace, constructed between 1765 and 1767, is not just a building but a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region. Originally known as Ahlefeldt-Schloss, named after its commissioner, it later became known as the Drostei, reflecting its use by the Landdroste (district governors) of Pinneberg.

The History of the Drostei

The Drostei's history is as intricate and fascinating as its architecture. The brick building at Dingstätte 23 was commissioned by Hans von Ahlefeldt, the Landdrost of Pinneberg, and is believed to have been designed by Ernst Georg Sonnin, although other sources suggest architects like Georg Greggenhofer or Cai Dose. This ambiguity adds a layer of mystery to the Drostei's origins.

For nearly a century, the Drostei served as the residence and office of the Landdroste of the County of Pinneberg and later the district governors. In 1929, the building's purpose shifted when the Pinneberg Cadastre Office moved in, initially occupying the lower floor and, by 1938, the entire building. During the Nazi era, the upper rooms were used by the Pinneberg SA as a Standartenhaus.

From 1984 to 1991, the Drostei underwent extensive restoration, reviving its former glory. Today, it functions as a cultural center at the district level, known as the House of Baroque and Modernity. It offers a diverse cultural program, including contemporary art and photography exhibitions, Renaissance and Baroque chamber music, literature events, and modern music concerts. Additionally, the Drostei serves as an external registry office for weddings once a month, adding a touch of historical elegance to matrimonial ceremonies.

Architectural Marvel

The Drostei is a two-story brick building with a mansard roof covered in black-glazed tiles. The large wooden crossbar windows, set within arched niches between masonry pillars, give the building a distinctive character. The corners of the building are accentuated by rusticated pilasters, adding to its stately appearance.

The façade is symmetrically divided into nine axes, with sandstone portals and single-flight staircases leading to triangular pedimented central projections. The main portal's curved gable is adorned with the Ahlefeldt/von Grote coat of arms, a nod to the building's historical roots. Each of the five-axis narrow sides features a dormer window, adding to the building's grandeur.

Inside, the original room layout has been preserved. The entrance hall, with its black and white marble tiles, leads to a wooden staircase. On the garden side, three salons extend in a row, with walls covered in colorful fabrics replicating old patterns. The first floor's central hall is a grand ballroom, with elegantly stuccoed ceilings and oven niches in the main rooms. Although the old stoves and furniture, including a square piano, are not original to the building, they add to the historical ambiance. The attic features two doors from the much smaller predecessor building's wood paneling, while the basement, now housing a restaurant, boasts a significant kitchen fireplace.

The Drostei Park

Behind the Drostei lies the Drostei Park, a public green space designed in the English style around 1800. The oldest depiction of the garden dates back to 1736, showing a classic French Baroque garden. A main axis, narrowing as it extended from the house, divided the garden and ended at the site of the current train station in the Fahlt (city forest).

In 1765, the garden featured a materials house, an orangery, and heated greenhouses. The so-called kitchen garden was located immediately west of the Drostei grounds. An 1800 watercolor depicts the Drostei Park as a landscape park, with remnants of its original Baroque design still visible.

The construction of the Hamburg-Altona–Kiel railway line in 1844 separated about a third of the park's area. In 1854, parts of the park were parceled out and built upon in the following years. During industrialization, the Union Ironworks (later Herman Wupperman Enamelling Works) settled on the site, now a residential area.

After 1918, the previously fenced-in park became publicly accessible. In the 1950s, the park was reduced by about 7,500 square meters due to the expansion of the Am Drosteipark road, resulting in the destruction of several hundred-year-old beech trees and remaining parts of a linden avenue. The park underwent further changes during the 1973 International Garden Exhibition, including the redesign of a pond originally intended as a fire water pond. A solitary oak tree standing immediately south of the building fell victim to a storm in 1975.

In conclusion, the Drostei is more than just a historical building; it is a cultural hub that bridges the past and the present. Its architectural splendor, rich history, and vibrant cultural offerings make it a must-visit destination in Pinneberg. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply looking for a picturesque spot to explore, the Drostei promises an enriching and memorable experience.