Nestled above the charming town of Überlingen, the Reichlin-von-Meldegg-Haus stands as a testament to the architectural evolution from Gothic to Renaissance styles in Germany. This former patrician residence, with its captivating blend of late Gothic and Florentine early Renaissance elements, is not only a cultural landmark but also one of the oldest Renaissance buildings in the country.
The story of this grand residence begins in 1456 when Andreas Reichlin von Meldegg, a physician and apothecary, gained citizenship in Überlingen and married into a prominent patrician family. By December 1459, he had acquired land on the Luzienberg, where he constructed a majestic, three-part estate, incorporating an older structure and a hanging garden. The year 1462, inscribed under the eaves, suggests the completion of the building's shell. Local craftsmen left their marks on the stonework, adding to the house's rich history. Upon Andreas's death in 1477, the house passed to his son, Klemens Reichlin von Meldegg.
The influence of the Reichlin von Meldegg family is evident throughout Überlingen, with their coat of arms adorning various buildings. Notably, Emperor Frederick III stayed at the house, and Andreas served as his personal physician. The family’s prominence peaked when Klemens, as mayor, expanded the town hall with a design inspired by their own residence. The Reichlin-von-Meldegg-Haus remained in the family until 1684, when financial difficulties forced its sale.
The architecture of the Reichlin-von-Meldegg-Haus is a fascinating study of styles. The main building is a grand, rectangular structure with three stories and a steep gabled roof, adorned with battlements visible from afar. Its eastern facade features round-arched niches and double blind arches, purely for decoration.
Attached to the main building is a wing extending south and west, with a striking crenellated roofline giving it a fortified appearance. The west wing, once the main entrance, showcases a two-story gatehouse. The Luzienkapelle, or Lucius Chapel, adjoins the main house, its facade blending seamlessly with the main structure, yet distinguished by its unique window designs.
Constructed alongside the main house, the Luzienkapelle was consecrated in 1468 to Saint Lucius of Chur. Its Gothic vault, supported by a single pillar, adds to its serene beauty. The chapel houses relics of St. Lucius, gifted in 1602, and features a baroque altar from the early 18th century. This sacred space remains a poignant reminder of the spiritual life intertwined with the house's history.
The house's rusticated facade, crafted from individually hewn stone blocks, is a hallmark of Renaissance architecture. This intricate masonry, a costly endeavor at the time, speaks to the wealth and status of the Reichlin von Meldegg family. The facade's design was inspired by the Palazzo Piccolomini in Pienza, reflecting Andreas's exposure to Italian architecture during his studies and service in Italy.
After changing hands multiple times, the house fell into disrepair, serving as a brewery and inn from 1819 to 1908. Recognizing its historical value, the city of Überlingen purchased the deteriorating structure in 1908 to house its municipal collections. Extensive restoration efforts from 1982 to 1992 have preserved the building’s legacy for future generations.
Today, the Reichlin-von-Meldegg-Haus serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the Lake Constance region. Its exhibits showcase artifacts and stories from the past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
In conclusion, the Reichlin-von-Meldegg-Haus is more than just a historic building; it is a symbol of the cultural and architectural heritage of Überlingen. Its walls echo the stories of a bygone era, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring this picturesque part of Germany.
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