Praunheim

In the northwest of Frankfurt, nestled along the Nidda River, lies Praunheim. Praunheim is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a blend of old and new, a testament to Frankfurt’s rich history and innovative spirit. Praunheim is actually composed of two distinct areas. Alt-Praunheim, the older section, retains the charm of a traditional Hessian village. Its central commercial street and timber-framed houses whisper tales of centuries past. Then there’s the Siedlung Praunheim, a 1920s housing development spearheaded by Ernst May. This development, with its 1,500 Bauhaus-style homes built between 1926 and 1929, stands as a landmark achievement in social housing. Praunheim’s history stretches back to the Neolithic period, roughly 6,000 years ago. The fertile loess soil of the Ebelfeld drew settlers, leaving behind a treasure trove of archaeological finds. The first documented mention of Praunheim, then known as Brumheim, dates back to 804. During the High Middle Ages, Praunheim was part of the Bornheimerberg estate, royal property. Near the church, by the Nidda, remnants suggest a moated royal court. The Knights of Praunheim, local nobility, played a pivotal role in Frankfurt’s history. Wolfram I. von Praunheim holds the distinction of being Frankfurt’s first known mayor. Praunheim also boasts the gothic tithe barn (Zehntscheune), likely dating back to the 14th century. This structure has served various purposes throughout history, from storing tax payments to housing prisoners. Today, it stands as a community hub for events and local council meetings. Praunheim has also been home to notable figures. Jazz trombonist Albert Mangelsdorff and his saxophonist brother Emil Mangelsdorff lived here. Filmmaker Rosa von Praunheim also called this place home. And speaking of homes, the Siedlung Praunheim wasn’t just about providing shelter. It introduced the innovative “Frankfurt Kitchen.” This compact, functional design revolutionized kitchen layouts. It emphasized efficiency and maximized living space. This forward-thinking design prioritized a family living room, a concept previously uncommon in working-class homes.