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Neues Rathaus: Freiburg's Neo-Renaissance Jewel

Discover Freiburg's iconic Neues Rathaus, a stunning blend of architectural styles and a hub of civic and cultural significance.

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The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) in Freiburg im Breisgau is an architectural landmark blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Despite its name, its history predates the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). It houses the city council and the Tourist Information Center.

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Local tips

  • Visit the Tourist Information Center inside the Neues Rathaus for maps, brochures, and local advice.
  • Take a stroll around Rathausplatz to admire the building's architecture and the surrounding historical buildings.
  • Climb the tower for panoramic views of Freiburg's Old Town (check for availability and opening times).
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Freiburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), walk northeast across the railway bridge towards the city center. Continue straight along Eisenbahnstraße, which becomes Bertoldstraße. Follow Bertoldstraße to the end, where it opens onto Rathausplatz. The Neues Rathaus will be directly in front of you, on the right side of the square. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes and is mostly pedestrian-friendly.

  • Public Transport

    From Freiburg Hauptbahnhof, take any tram line heading towards the city center (e.g., lines 1, 3, or 5). Get off at the 'Bertoldsbrunnen' stop. From Bertoldsbrunnen, walk east towards the Rathausplatz. The Neues Rathaus is a short walk from the tram stop. A single short-trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) costs around €1.80.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Neues Rathaus is not recommended due to the pedestrianized city center. Limited parking is available in the Rotteckgarage or other nearby parking garages. From the A5 motorway, follow signs towards 'Freiburg Zentrum'. Once in the city center, follow signs to 'Parkhaus Rotteckgarage'. From the parking garage, it's a short walk to Rathausplatz. Parking fees at Rotteckgarage are approximately €2.80 per hour.

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Freiburg's Neues Rathaus, despite translating to 'New Town Hall,' boasts a history stretching back further than its counterpart, the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall). Situated on Rathausplatz, this architectural landmark serves as a testament to Freiburg's evolving identity. The story begins in the late 19th century when the city sought to consolidate its administrative functions. Instead of constructing a new building, Freiburg merged two Renaissance structures: the Gerichtslaube (Court Arbor) dating back to 1303 and Haus Zum Walfisch (House to Whale) from around 1490. These buildings served as a courtroom and a private residence before becoming the 'New' Town Hall. Extensive renovations between 1896 and 1901 unified the buildings, adding a central structure and redesigning the facade. The result is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with intricate detailing. The central tower offers panoramic views of Freiburg's old town. The whitewashed exterior features frescoes by Fritz Geiges, depicting scenes from local history. Inside, a grand staircase, stained glass windows, and ornate ceilings await. The council chamber features decorative wood paneling. Today, the chamber continues to serve as the meeting place for Freiburg's city council. The Neues Rathaus also houses the Tourist Information Center.

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