Old Town Hall of Linz

Linz, the Upper Austrian capital, is a city rich in history and culture. One of its most prominent attractions is the Old Town Hall, a magnificent building that has witnessed many events and changes over the centuries. The Old Town Hall is located on the east side of the main square, which is the heart of the city’s old quarters. The building has a distinctive baroque facade and an octagonal tower that stands out among the surrounding structures. The Old Town Hall also features an arcaded courtyard, where visitors can admire the Gothic and Biedermeier artworks that were discovered during the renovation of the building.

The Old Town Hall dates back to the early 16th century, when it was rebuilt by Master Christoph after a devastating fire that destroyed most of the city in 1509. The original structure was a Gothic hall with a vaulted ceiling and a tower. Some of these elements have survived until today, such as the tower and some of the chambers inside the town hall. The tower, which is 54 meters high, has a clock and a bell that ring every hour. The tower also offers a panoramic view of the city and the Danube river.

The Old Town Hall underwent a major expansion and renovation in 1658/1659, when it was given its current baroque appearance. The facade was decorated with statues of the four cardinal virtues: justice, prudence, fortitude, and temperance. The facade also bears the coat of arms of the city and the Habsburg dynasty, which ruled Austria at the time. The interior of the town hall was also embellished with paintings, stucco, and marble.

The Old Town Hall has been the scene of many historical events and ceremonies. One of the most notable ones was in 1938, when Adolf Hitler, who was born in Braunau am Inn, a town near Linz, gave his first speech as the German Chancellor on Austrian soil. Hitler announced the annexation of Austria to Nazi Germany, which was met with enthusiasm by many of his fellow Austrians. The Old Town Hall was also damaged by Allied bombings during World War II, but it was restored after the war.

Today, the Old Town Hall is still the seat of the mayor and the town council of Linz. It is also a cultural and tourist center, where visitors can learn more about the history and art of the city. The Old Town Hall hosts the Linz Museum for the History of Dentistry, which displays the evolution of dental care and instruments from ancient times to the present. The museum also offers guided tours and workshops for children and adults. The Old Town Hall also houses the Tourist Information, where visitors can get information and advice on the best places to see and things to do in Linz.

The Old Town Hall of Linz is a must-see for anyone who wants to explore the past and present of this vibrant and beautiful city. The Old Town Hall is not only a stunning architectural masterpiece, but also a witness and a symbol of the history and culture of Linz.