Perhaps, if we listen closely enough we can hear echoes of Mainz’s aristocratic past within these walls of the Älterer Dalberger Hof. This Renaissance building stands as a testament to the Freiherren von Dalberg. It was their Mainzer seat until they moved to the Jüngerer Dalberger Hof in 1718.
The Älterer Dalberger Hof wasn’t always called that. It was once known as the “Hof Zum Roten Haus” or Königsteiner Hof. The Counts of Eppstein-Königstein owned it since 1463. The late Gothic residential tower still stands. It houses the former chapel. Notice how the tower borders the neighboring Fechenbacher Hof.
In 1597, the Freiherren von Dalberg acquired the property. Then it took their name. Between 1609 and 1614, the present Renaissance structure was built. The Eckerkers are typical of many Mainz buildings from that era.
In 1710, the baroque main portal was added. Shortly after, they installed the staircase and created the terraced garden in the back. The family’s coat of arms displays six silver lilies. These derive from the arms of the Kämmerer von Worms. An anchor cross also features. This alludes to the arms of the Herren von Dalberg. Both elements sit proudly above the baroque main portal.
In 1846, the Englische Fräulein, or the Congregation of Jesus, took over the property. They also acquired the neighboring Fechenbacher Hof. They established the Maria-Ward-Schule here. Today, it remains the only girls’ school in Mainz.
The Dalbergs were an old German noble family. Their roots trace back to the Middle Ages. Between 1208 and 1806, the family played a significant role in the Holy Roman Empire. The family line ended in 1979 with the death of its last representative.
Imagine the social gatherings. Envision the political discussions within these walls. The Älterer Dalberger Hof has witnessed centuries of Mainz’s history. The Dalberg family later moved to the Jüngerer Dalberger Hof. They needed a larger space to reflect their elevated status.
Take note of the Wohnturm which remains from the Königsteiner Hof. It has a cross-ribbed vaulted ground floor. The chapel from 1466 dedicated to the apostles Simon and Judas still reminds us of the Mainzer Stiftsfehde.
Though we can’t step inside today, the Älterer Dalberger Hof’s exterior tells a rich story. It is a story of nobility, religious orders, and the enduring spirit of Mainz. It stands as a symbol of architectural transition. It bridges the gap between Gothic and Renaissance styles. The Älterer Dalberger Hof remains a fascinating landmark.