Is it possible for a house to embody the spirit of a city’s preservation? Here stands the Dr.-Erich-Mulzer-Haus. It is not just bricks and mortar. It is a testament to Nuremberg’s enduring charm.
The Dr.-Erich-Mulzer-Haus stands as a monument to a man who dedicated his life to preserving Nuremberg’s old town. Erich Mulzer was a professor and the long-time chairman of the Altstadtfreunde Nurnberg. This translates to the “Old Town Friends of Nuremberg”.
Erich Mulzer studied German, Geography, and History. He focused on the architectural history of Nuremberg. In 1951, he joined the Altstadtfreunde. This group championed the preservation and reconstruction of Nuremberg’s townhouses. Mulzer even wrote a book about these houses in 1954. The city council supported his work.
In 1973, Erich Mulzer became chairman of the Altstadtfreunde. He restructured the organization. It became Nuremberg’s largest citizens’ association. Mulzer significantly influenced local politics. He founded the Nurnberger Altstadtberichte in 1976. These annual reports provided accountability and expert insights.
Mulzer’s dedication shaped the old town’s development. He was however a controversial figure. Critics claimed he opposed any modernization. He famously blocked a project by architect Helmut Jahn.
Despite the criticism, Erich Mulzer’s impact is undeniable. He authored the Baedeker travel guide to Nuremberg. This shaped the image of Nuremberg for many tourists.
The Dr.-Erich-Mulzer-Haus itself has a rich history. It began in 1390 as a three-story corner building. It had a gable roof. Small changes occurred in the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1728, the galleries were removed and the timber framing was replaced.
The building facades were plastered in the 19th century. A shop was installed on the ground floor. The Altstadtfreunde Nurnberg acquired the building in 2000. Restoration began in 2002. The building’s structure was secured. Warped beam ceilings were raised by up to 50 cm. The entire building was gutted. The timber construction was repaired. The framework was filled with brick.
The Dr.-Erich-Mulzer-Haus renovation finished between 2005 and 2010. Several organizations supported the project. These included the Bavarian State Ministry and the German Foundation for Monument Protection.
Erich Mulzer died in 2005 and was buried in the Johannisfriedhof. His tombstone features a relief of the Haus Irrerstrasse 1. Mulzer recognized the building’s urban importance. The Altstadtfreunde acquired it in 1997.
The Dr.-Erich-Mulzer-Haus stands as a reminder of Erich Mulzer’s legacy. It embodies his commitment to preserving Nuremberg’s architectural heritage. As you explore Nuremberg remember the man who helped shape its timeless beauty.