Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel

The Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel, nestled in the heart of the Hanseatic city of Salzwedel in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is a captivating blend of historical architecture and rich heritage. Known locally as the Bürgermeisterhof, this remarkable ensemble of timber-framed buildings is a testament to the city's storied past and architectural evolution. The complex is centrally located on Burgstraße, near the former city gate Am Siel, and backs onto the ancient Burg Salzwedel, making it one of the oldest and most historically significant sites in the city.

The Historical Tapestry of Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel

The origins of the Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel date back to the 14th century, with the first recorded mention of the nearby Burg Saltwiedele in 1112. The property has stood witness to centuries of change, from its early days as part of the city's fortifications to its current status as a cultural and architectural landmark. The ensemble is laid out as a four-sided courtyard, with buildings that reflect various architectural styles and periods, from the 13th-century city wall and watchtower to 16th, 18th, and 19th-century timber-framed houses, and even 20th-century additions from the DDR era.

The Evolution of Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel is its evolution over the centuries. The oldest building in the complex is a timber-framed granary with a projecting upper floor, built in 1543. This structure, known for its distinctive rosette carvings and floral friezes, is often referred to as the Rosettenhaus. The granary was constructed using parts of the old city wall, which still forms the rear of the building.

In the 16th century, two more granaries were added on either side of the watchtower, completing the south flank of the Bürgermeisterhof. One of these buildings, known as the Deelenhaus, features a beam with the date 1567 and the initials JH and CB, representing Jürgen Hanss, the son of Mayor Georg Hanss, and his wife Catharina Buch. The Bürgermeisterhof gets its name from the fact that at least four mayors of Salzwedel and their families lived here between the mid-16th and mid-19th centuries.

The Bürgermeisterhof in the Modern Era

During the DDR era, the Bürgermeisterhof underwent significant changes. In 1957, the complex was purchased by the textile processing cooperative PGH Modewerkstätten Salzwedel, which made extensive modifications to the buildings. Despite plans to demolish the old granaries, the preservation efforts prevailed, and the structures were instead repurposed. The ground floor of the front house was reinforced with solid walls, and a passage was created through the Deelenhaus and the city wall to the Burg Garden. A simple annex was added on the south side to serve as a production hall, and a separate production building with social facilities was constructed on the west flank in 1973.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Bürgermeisterhof changed hands several times. In 1990, the buildings were sold to private individuals, and various businesses, including a glass and porcelain shop and a clothing store, occupied the premises. The Sparkasse bank also temporarily used some of the upper-floor spaces. In 1992, a modernization study was conducted, leading to the restoration of the ground floor facade of the front house and other improvements. However, significant restoration work was limited by the heritage protection authorities.

In 2020, the Bürgermeisterhof was sold to the newly formed association Bürgermeisterhof e.V. for €80,000. The association aims to restore the historic buildings in a manner that respects their heritage and ecological values, making them available for cultural, craft, educational, social, and artistic purposes. Since December 2021, emergency and restoration work has been underway, funded by the Urban Development Promotion Program for Growth and Sustainable Renewal. By October 2022, the north gable, west side, and roofs of the Deelenhaus, Steinhaus, and side wing had been restored to their former glory.

Exploring Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel

Visitors to the Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel can immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of this unique site. The complex offers a glimpse into the various building epochs of the Altmark Hanseatic city, from medieval fortifications to modern-day restorations. The Rosettenhaus, with its intricate carvings, and the Deelenhaus, with its historical inscriptions, are must-see highlights. The courtyard, now paved with cobblestones and featuring a wrought-iron gate, provides a charming setting for cultural events and gatherings.

The Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel is not just a collection of old buildings; it is a living testament to the resilience and adaptability of Salzwedel's architectural heritage. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, a visit to the Bürgermeisterhof Salzwedel promises to be a memorable journey through time.