Eight hundred Guilders. That’s what the city council paid in 1405 for the Haus zum Römer. Can you imagine? A sum that secured a piece of Frankfurt’s history.
This isn’t just any building. This is the Haus zum Römer the heart of Frankfurt’s city hall for over six centuries. It’s the central building of a complex of nine houses. These houses encircle six courtyards. A true labyrinth as one historian noted.
The name itself is intriguing. ‘Zum Römer’ means ‘at the Roman’. It refers to Frankfurt’s Roman origins. This spot held significance long before the city even existed. The Haus zum Römer stands opposite the Old St Nicholas Church a significant landmark in its own right.
Over the years the complex grew. The city acquired more houses. The Frauenrode house in 1424. The Viole house in 1510. The Schwarzenfels house in 1542. Each addition shaped the Haus zum Römer’s unique character. The architectural integration of these buildings was quite complex particularly when connecting the Haus Lőwenstein. The floor heights were radically different.
The Haus zum Römer wasn’t just a political center. It housed markets and fairs. Imagine the bustling activity. Goldsmiths and silversmiths displayed their wares in the Römerhalle and Schwanenhalle. These halls remain virtually unchanged after 600 years. They are the oldest parts of the building. Even after World War II they were used for markets again. Their sturdy construction saved them from complete destruction.
The Kaisersaal. The Emperor Hall. A must-see for any visitor. This grand hall hosted coronation banquets during the Holy Roman Empire. It boasts a unique collection of 19th-century portraits of emperors. These include works by Eduard von Steinle depicting emperors like Albert I and Ferdinand III.
World War II devastated Frankfurt. The Haus zum Römer suffered immense damage. The night of March 22 1944 remains etched in history. The bombing raid was one of the heaviest Allied attacks. Yet the city rebuilt. The Haus zum Römer was re-inaugurated in 1955. President Theodor Heuss performed the ceremony. Its neo-Gothic facade a testament to Frankfurt’s resilience.
The Haus zum Römer continues to serve the city. It hosts weddings. It houses city offices. It’s a living monument. A place where history breathes. Step onto that balcony. Imagine the cheers the celebrations. The Haus zum Römer a true symbol of Frankfurt.