Hexenbürgermeisterhaus

In the charming town of Lemgo, nestled in the heart of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands a remarkable relic of Renaissance architecture, the Hexenbürgermeisterhaus. This historic building, with its intricate façade and storied past, draws visitors from near and far, eager to uncover its secrets and admire its beauty.

The History of Hexenbürgermeisterhaus

The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus, which translates to Witch Mayor's House, was constructed between 1568 and 1571 by the merchant Hermann Kruwel and his wife Lisbeth Fürstenau. The renowned Lemgo master builder Hermann Wulff is credited with its design. This grand structure served as a testament to the prosperity and architectural prowess of the era, embodying the style of the Weser Renaissance with its elaborate façade and sophisticated design.

The house gained its intriguing name from Hermann Cothmann, a notorious mayor and jurist who resided there from 1667 to 1683. Cothmann earned a fearsome reputation as a witch hunter during the infamous witch trials in Lemgo. His legacy, though dark, has become an integral part of the house's history, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to its already captivating story.

Exploring the Architecture

The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus is a quintessential example of a Renaissance merchant's house. Its most striking feature is the opulent façade, adorned with decorative elements typical of the period. The façade's lower section, known as the Utlucht, is a broad, window-rich projection extending towards the street. These were common in stone buildings of the Renaissance and timber-framed structures of later centuries.

Above the Utlucht, the façade is divided by half-columns and cornices, creating a visually stunning composition. On the right side, a bay window, supported by consoles, adds to the architectural complexity. This intricate design not only showcases the craftsmanship of the time but also highlights the wealth and status of its original owners.

The Museum Experience

Today, the Hexenbürgermeisterhaus serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Lemgo's rich history and the house's own fascinating past. In 2007, a new permanent exhibition was unveiled, presenting the history of the house and the city with the latest scholarly insights. The museum also includes the renovated Haus Weege, which now acts as the museum's foyer, seamlessly connecting to the main building.

One of the museum's highlights is the collection of torture instruments from the estate of the Clauss family, Lemgo's executioners. These artifacts, along with reproductions from the 19th and 20th centuries, evoke the grim period of witch persecution, though the house itself never served as a torture chamber. The museum also explores the biographies of individuals affected by these trials, providing a poignant reminder of this tumultuous era.

A Journey Through Time

The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus is not only a monument to the architectural brilliance of the Renaissance but also a testament to the complex and often turbulent history of Lemgo. The results of extensive building research conducted during the last major renovation reveal the building's evolving story, showcasing its adaptation through the centuries.

Visitors can wander through the grand hall with its impressive fireplace, imagining the gatherings and events that once took place within its walls. The museum's displays offer insights into the daily lives of its former inhabitants and the broader historical context of the time.

Discovering Lemgo's Heritage

The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus stands as a proud symbol of Lemgo's heritage, inviting visitors to explore its past and appreciate its architectural splendor. As you stroll through the streets of Lemgo, the house's striking presence is a reminder of the town's rich history and cultural significance.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the stories of the past, a visit to the Hexenbürgermeisterhaus is a journey into the heart of Renaissance Germany, where tales of witch trials and architectural wonders intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.