Town hall Wernigerode

Welcome to the enchanting world of the Town Hall Wernigerode, a stunning example of medieval architecture nestled in the picturesque town of Wernigerode in Sachsen-Anhalt, Germany. Known locally as Rathaus Wernigerode, this historic building stands proudly on the south side of the town's bustling marketplace, an emblem of the town's rich history and cultural heritage.

The Fascinating History of Town Hall Wernigerode

The origins of the Town Hall Wernigerode date back to around 1420 when it was initially constructed by Count Heinrich as a comital playhouse, or Spelhus, atop a wine cellar. An inscription in the coat of arms above the main portal serves as a testament to this early history. By 1427, Count Heinrich generously gifted the building to the town of Wernigerode, and it continued to serve as a playhouse, hosting festivities during Fastnacht (Carnival) and functioning as a hub for trade and justice.

Between 1494 and 1498, the building underwent significant transformations, resulting in the iconic half-timbered structure we see today, which faces the marketplace. The upper story, constructed with robust beams, juts out about 50 centimeters over the solid lower floor, creating a striking visual effect. The façade's intricate design includes a dense series of curved St. Andrew's crosses, capped by a strong breast beam, emphasizing horizontal elements while the twin turrets flanking the entrance highlight the vertical dimension.

The building's embellishments are a feast for the eyes, with carved figures adorning the brackets. The ground floor features saints, while beneath the roof, one can find depictions of minstrels, jesters, drinkers, and Morris dancers with the May Queen. The beam heads are also intricately carved, adding to the building's charm. This remarkable work was completed by master carpenter Thomas Hilleborch, as noted in an inscription on the threshold.

A Tale of Transformation and Resilience

In 1528, a devastating fire ravaged Wernigerode, destroying the old town hall located nearby. Seizing the opportunity, the town acquired the Schierstedt family's house, built in 1455/56, and integrated it with the playhouse to create the current town hall. This extensive renovation, carried out between 1539 and 1544 under Simon Hilleborch, transformed the Schierstedt property into the Ratswaage, or weigh house. The high ground floor of the weigh house, constructed from rubble stones, supports a low, overhanging upper story built in half-timbered style, adorned with figurative brackets depicting both saints and Carnival revelry.

In 1699, the town hall received a new addition – a roof turret. Fast forward to 1873-1875, the building underwent a major renovation focused on functionality. However, these changes were later deemed misguided, leading to a gradual restoration to its former glory starting in 1906. From 1936 to 1939, further significant modifications and expansions were undertaken, including the removal of office spaces from the old banquet hall to restore it to its original size. The east wing, added in 1873-1875, was rebuilt in half-timbered style and housed the savings bank, while a Renaissance bay window from 1584, known as the Bürgermeisterstübchen, was incorporated into the new wing's roof in 1939.

Architectural Marvels and Cultural Treasures

The Town Hall Wernigerode is not just a building; it's a treasure trove of architectural marvels and cultural relics. The cellar, still in use today as the Ratskeller, features a main room with a rectangular floor plan, vaulted by a cross-ribbed ceiling supported by two sturdy central pillars. Additionally, there are two small storage rooms with barrel vaults. In 1948, artist Bert Heller created a mural depicting Harz legends in the Ratskeller, though it has not survived.

The ground floor, likely originally divided like the cellar, now retains only its rubble stone exterior walls. Visitors can access the elevated ground floor via a double-flight staircase situated between the two turrets, which was renewed in 1741. The town hall's façade and interior have undergone several restorations, with the most recent major renovation completed in 1993. In 2021, further maintenance work began on the west façade and the grand hall.

A Symbol of Heritage and Community

The Town Hall Wernigerode has been immortalized on several postage stamps, a testament to its significance as a cultural and historical landmark. Listed as a cultural monument in the local heritage register, it stands as a proud symbol of Wernigerode's heritage and community spirit. The building's rich history, architectural splendor, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the charming town of Wernigerode.

So, whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Town Hall Wernigerode promises to captivate and inspire, offering a glimpse into the past while standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of this beautiful town.