Is it possible that the stones of the Peterhof could whisper tales from centuries past? This historic building stands as a testament to Freiburg’s rich history. It has evolved through many eras.
The Peterhof is one of the university’s oldest buildings. It is located on Niemensstrasse. The university also owns the house “Zur lieben Hand.” It was once owned by the St. Trudpert monastery.
Originally, the Peterhof belonged to St. Peter’s Monastery in the Black Forest. It was once three times larger. Today, only the main building remains. This includes a deep cellar with a vaulted ceiling, a spiral staircase, and a Renaissance chapel.
In medieval times, three houses stood where the Peterhof is now. These houses had two-story cellars. The monastery of St. Peter systematically bought these houses starting in 1492. By 1585, Abbot Gallus Vöglin acquired the corner house “Zum Hasen”. He transformed the row of houses into a monastic complex. The houses received new facades with crow-stepped gables. A spiral staircase was also added to the Peterhof.
The chapel was magnificently adorned. Its round windows make it easily identifiable. Below the chapel lies the vaulted archive cellar. This cellar secured valuables during times of crisis. Functional buildings connected to the main structure. These buildings included a stall, barn, and granary. The Peterhof served various functions. It was a storehouse and marketplace for the monastery’s income. This included livestock and grain. The deep cellars stored wine. Administrators and friars lived in the main house. The abbot had a luxurious apartment with a ceramic stove.
In 1730, Johann Georg Bechter was commissioned to build a new wine cellar. It was built between the front building and the chapel. On the second floor, chambers were furnished for the abbot. The year 1731 is engraved on the gate of this wing. Abbot Ulrich Bürgis’s initials are also there.
In 1766, Johann Jakob Häring modified the facades and roof. He added a new main entrance. Inside, a double flight of stairs mimicked those of castles.
In 1806, the Peterhof was put under state control. The provincial administration moved in. Rent and tithes were paid to the state here. In 1869, the military began using the Peterhof. In 1925, the Viticultural Institute of Baden moved in. The stall became a youth hostel.
Air raids in 1944 heavily damaged the Peterhof. The roof and ceilings burned. Only the foundation walls and vaulted rooms remained. These included the cellar, archive, and chapel. The Peterhof was rebuilt between 1957 and 1961. The exterior preserved the old forms. The interior was remodeled into a modern university building.
The original cellar has been reconstructed. It serves as an event space. The visible stone vaulted ceilings create a captivating atmosphere. The Peterhof Cellar shines again in new splendor.
Today, the Peterhof stands as a blend of history and modernity. It is a reminder of Freiburg’s enduring spirit. Its walls echo with stories of monks, administrators, and students. This building is a testament to the city’s rich past. The Peterhof continues to serve the university. It welcomes all who seek knowledge and culture.