In the heart of Dornbirn, Austria, lies the Adolf-Rhomberg-Haus, a stately building steeped in history and architectural splendor. This grand residence, which stands proudly on Marktstraße, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and the architectural prowess of the region. Named after its most famous resident, Adolf Rhomberg, a former Governor of Vorarlberg, the house has witnessed a myriad of historical events and transformations since its construction at the turn of the 19th century.
The Adolf-Rhomberg-Haus was originally commissioned by Marx Alois Luger, a prominent textile entrepreneur in Dornbirn. Constructed between 1798 and 1799, the house was designed as a garden palace, an opulent residence that reflected Luger's wealth and status. Built by master builder Sigmund Hilbe, the house cost approximately 15,000 gulden, a sum that was ten times the value of an average home at the time. Situated on the then sparsely populated outer Marktstraße, the house stood out in its green surroundings, marking its presence on a main thoroughfare.
The house initially featured a cellar and three upper floors, with a central corridor running from one façade to the other on each level. It also boasted a large hall intended for special gatherings and a mansard roof attic that housed the domestic staff. During the First Coalition War, the house gained an unexpected resident: Grand Duke Konstantin Pavlovich Romanov, son of Tsar Paul I and brother of future Tsar Alexander I. The Russian troops, led by Field Marshal Alexander Suvorov, were forced to detour through Vorarlberg, and the Grand Duke stayed at Luger's residence for 14 days before moving on to Lindau.
Despite his initial success, Marx Alois Luger faced financial ruin in 1803, declaring bankruptcy with debts far exceeding his assets. His father-in-law, Johann Huber, acquired the house from the bankruptcy estate for 10,999 gulden. Luger and his wife Katharina moved back to a modest dwelling, while Huber took over the grand residence. After Huber's death in 1818, the Lugers returned to live with Luger's mother-in-law until her death in 1833, after which the house was sold, and the family relocated to Vienna.
In 1833, the house was purchased by Eduard Rhomberg, a member of the prominent Herrburger & Rhomberg textile family and a great-nephew of the original builder, Marx Alois Luger. Eduard Rhomberg, known for his philanthropic efforts, left his mark on the house, with the Rhomberg family crest and Eduard's initials still adorning the entrance.
The most notable resident of the house, Adolf Rhomberg, was born here in 1851. He would later become a significant political figure, rising to the position of Governor of Vorarlberg. In 1893, he funded the construction of a Capuchin monastery directly opposite the house. In 1900, Adolf Rhomberg commissioned renowned Art Nouveau architect Hanns Kornberger to renovate and remodel the residence, focusing on the façade and transforming the garden into a park-like setting complete with a large fountain.
After Adolf Rhomberg's death, his widow continued to live in the house, joined by their niece Marie Scheller and her husband Franz Wolf, a lawyer from Bregenz. The house even saw a brief period of forced occupation by Nazi Kreisleiter Klaus Mahnert during World War II. Marie Wolf remained in the house until her death in 1986, after which it was sold to the Vorarlberg Guild of Building Trades. In 1987, the guild undertook extensive renovations to restore the house to its former glory.
Today, the Adolf-Rhomberg-Haus stands as a protected monument, a symbol of Dornbirn's rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can admire its stunning façade, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design, and imagine the grand events that once took place within its walls. The house's location on Marktstraße makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the city, offering a glimpse into the lives of Dornbirn's influential textile families and their contributions to the region's development.
In conclusion, the Adolf-Rhomberg-Haus is more than just a building; it is a testament to the resilience and prosperity of Dornbirn's past. Its walls hold stories of opulence, hardship, and transformation, making it an essential visit for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of Austrian history. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Adolf-Rhomberg-Haus promises a fascinating journey through time.
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