Ever wonder what secrets lie hidden within a moated palace right here in Frankfurt? This is the Holzhausenschlösschen. For centuries, it has stood as a silent witness to the city’s evolving story.
The Holzhausenschlösschen, or Little Holzhausen Palace, began its life as a moated castle in the Middle Ages. The respected Holzhausen family owned this property since 1470. Back then, this area was called Holzhausen Oed and lay far outside the fortified city. “Oed” meant desolation referring to the heath. The family first used the area for farming.
Fast forward to the 18th century. Johann Hieronymus von Holzhausen commissioned the building of the present Holzhausenschlösschen between 1727 and 1729. He wanted a summer residence for his family. He chose Louis Remy de la Fosse from Darmstadt as his architect. Sadly, de la Fosse died before the building was completed.
The architecture of the Holzhausenschlösschen is unique. It features a Flemish style more common in Scandinavia and the Low Countries. The palace has a rectangular design with five bays on the longer side and three on the narrow side. The tall narrow build shows a Dutch influence. The hipped roof has dormer windows and a belvedere structure.
Over time Frankfurt grew. By the 19th century the Holzhausenschlösschen found itself in the Nordend district. It was surrounded on three sides by the Holzhausenpark. The pond and park were reduced in 1910. An allée of chestnut trees was planted. Adolph von Holzhausen, the last male member of the family, gifted the palace and park to Frankfurt.
Even war touched the Holzhausenschlösschen. In 1944, air raids damaged the building. The interior was later restored. From 1953 to 1988, it housed the Frankfurt Museum for Pre-and Early History.
Since 1989, the Holzhausenschlösschen has been home to the Frankfurter Bürgerstiftung. This community foundation hosts many cultural events. Major reconstruction began in 2012. The goal was to build a larger hall for chamber music.
Before us is more than just a building. The Holzhausenschlösschen is a journey through time. Its walls whisper tales of noble families artistic gatherings and a city’s relentless growth. It is a reminder that even in the heart of a bustling metropolis, history patiently awaits our discovery.