The Zumsteinhaus in Kempten, Bavaria, is a captivating blend of history and architectural elegance. Nestled in the heart of this charming town, the building stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. With its classical design and storied past, the Zumsteinhaus offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history and heritage of Kempten.
Constructed in 1802, the Zumsteinhaus was originally built for the Zumstein de la Pierre family, a prominent merchant family from Savoy. This freestanding, three-story building with its elegant mansard roof quickly became a landmark. The house's façade, facing the Residenzplatz, is adorned with intricate details that reflect the neoclassical style of the period.
The building's history is as colorful as its architecture. Acquired by the city of Kempten in 1951, the Zumsteinhaus has since served various cultural purposes. From 1961, it housed a Roman Museum, showcasing the area's rich Roman heritage, and later, a Natural History Museum was added in 1975, featuring fascinating geological collections. These museums, however, were closed in 2015 to make way for a new chapter in the building's history.
The Zumsteinhaus is a masterpiece of architectural design. Its façade is a visual delight, featuring five to six axes and a stunning array of decorative elements. The ground floor windows are barred and set against a quoined plaster finish adorned with diamond patterns and an Andreaskreuz motif. The main entrance, a rectangular portal with a basket arch, is flanked by half-columns that support an ornate balcony above.
The upper floors are equally impressive, with pilasters featuring volute capitals and garlands. The windows are topped with delicate rosettes and ovals, adding to the building's charm. At the top, a shallow triangular pediment crowned with putti holding the Zumstein family crest completes the grand design. This attention to detail makes the Zumsteinhaus a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
In December 2019, the Zumsteinhaus reopened as the Kempten-Museum, marking a new era for this historic building. The museum offers a thematic exploration of Kempten's history, from its Roman origins to the present day. The exhibits are designed to be interactive and engaging, making history accessible to visitors of all ages.
The museum's mission is to serve as a cultural hub, reflecting the city's diverse heritage and fostering community engagement. The participatory project series Stadtexpedition Kempten played a crucial role in shaping the museum's development, involving local residents in the process. This innovative approach has earned the museum recognition as one of Germany's best local history museums.
Adjacent to the Zumsteinhaus is a beautifully crafted garden gate, also a protected monument, leading to the Kempten city park. This gate, adorned with golden lions, serves as a grand entrance during the Allgäu Festival Week. Behind it lies a serene garden featuring a large water basin decorated with a Roman mosaic and a series of smaller fountains.
This tranquil setting offers a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation, providing a contrast to the bustling city square. The garden's design complements the Zumsteinhaus's architectural elegance, creating a harmonious blend of nature and art.
The Zumsteinhaus is more than just a building; it's a living legacy of Kempten's rich history. Its transformation from a private residence to a cultural landmark reflects the city's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity. Whether you're an architecture aficionado, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Zumsteinhaus promises an enriching experience.
As you explore its halls and admire its intricate details, you'll be transported through time, gaining insights into the lives of those who shaped this remarkable city. The Zumsteinhaus stands as a proud symbol of Kempten's past, present, and future, inviting you to discover its many stories.
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