Don’t miss the Historical Merchants’ Hall on Freiburg’s Minster Square. Standing slightly in front of the buildings on either side, with its red eaves stretching out possessively into the street, the building seems to have the form of one of the hard-dealing merchants who once traded in the courtyard. Supplemented by its bright red color and elaborate exterior decoration, it boldly sets its claim as one of the city’s most important buildings. Spend time in front of it to understand the soul of the city.
Stand in front and imagine the scene when this version of the Merchants’ Hall was opened in 1520, crammed with the goods that made the fortune of Freiburg and cities like it. Spot the Habsburg crest on the front, supplemented by replica statues of some of the family’s most prominent names. The German Habsburgs may not have had their Spanish cousins’ peculiar looks, but notice the family resemblance between each of the faces. Try to guess the five territories depicted by the emblems below the bay windows.
At the yearly wine tasting and other activities, walk under the arches to the inner courtyard that was once a merchandise storage area. During even more special events, go farther into the sumptuously decorated hall. Most days, you’ll be confined to admiring the façade. On market days, pick up a copy of Goethe’s poems or your favorite German literature from the booksellers who set their tables out as their forefathers did before them.
The Historical Merchants’ Hall is in the heart of historical Freiburg, easy for a quick stop while touring the city’s other many attractions. Just off the Münsterplatz, it is next door to the Freiburg Münster and many historic houses. Walk from the main train station in 15 minutes or take the bus in 10 minutes. Driving into Freiburg Altstadt is not recommended because of restrictions on vehicles, but ample parking is available at the exterior of the city center. Access to the building is available only during special events, such as literary readings or concerts by the SWR Symphony Orchestra. Check online for schedules.
