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Haus Schütting: Bremen's Merchant House

Discover Haus Schütting in Bremen: A stunning Renaissance landmark on the Marktplatz, embodying the city's rich mercantile history and Hanseatic spirit.

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Haus Schütting, a magnificent historical landmark in Bremen's heart, stands as a testament to the city's rich mercantile history. Built in the 16th century, this Renaissance-style building has served as a guildhall for merchants and tradesmen and, since 1849, as the seat of Bremen's Chamber of Commerce. Its ornate facade, adorned with sculptures and carvings, tells stories of Bremen's past, while its location on the bustling market square places it amidst other iconic landmarks like the Town Hall and Roland Statue. Visitors can admire its architectural details, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding square, and delve into Bremen's cultural tapestry. While formal tours aren't available, the building's historical significance and picturesque nature make it a must-see for anyone exploring Bremen. Don't miss the inscription above the entrance, 'Buten un binnen, wagen un winnen' – Bremen's merchant motto, meaning 'Outside and inside, dare and win'.

A brief summary to Haus Schütting

Local tips

  • Take a stroll around the Marktplatz to admire other historical buildings like the Bremen Town Hall and the Roland Statue.
  • Look for the inscription 'Buten un binnen, wagen un winnen' above the entrance, the motto of Bremen's merchants.
  • Visit the nearby Böttcherstraße, a unique street with distinctive architecture and artisan shops.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Haus Schütting is located on the Marktplatz in the heart of Bremen's city center. From Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), walk approximately 15 minutes towards the city center. Follow the tram lines or pedestrian signs to 'Domshof' and then continue towards the Marktplatz. Haus Schütting will be on your right, next to the Bremen Town Hall. Alternatively, from Domsheide, a central transport hub, walk for about 5 minutes towards the Marktplatz. Orientation points include the Bremen Cathedral and the Roland Statue, both located on the Marktplatz.

  • Public Transport

    From Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), take tram lines 4, 6, or 8 to the 'Domsheide' stop. From there, walk approximately 5 minutes to the Marktplatz. Alternatively, take bus line 25 to the 'Schüsselkorb' stop, which is directly adjacent to the Marktplatz. A single tram or bus fare within Bremen is approximately €2.60.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) to Haus Schütting on the Marktplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €8-€12. Be sure to specify 'Am Markt' as your destination.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Haus Schütting is not recommended due to the pedestrianized zone in the Marktplatz area. The closest parking garages are 'Parkhaus Mitte' (Pelzerstraße 40) and 'Pressehaus' (Langenstraße 31). From either garage, it's a short walk (5-10 minutes) to the Marktplatz. Parking fees typically range from €1.50 per half hour, with a daily maximum of €15.00. On Sundays and public holidays, the maximum daily rate at Parkhaus Mitte is €5.00.

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Discover more about Haus Schütting

Haus Schütting, prominently situated on Bremen's Marktplatz (market square), is more than just a building; it's a symbol of the city's enduring mercantile spirit and a tangible link to its Hanseatic past. Originally constructed as a guildhall for Bremen's merchants and tradesmen, it has been the seat of the Bremen Chamber of Commerce since 1849, solidifying its role as a central hub for the city's economic activities. The Schütting's history dates back to the 1530s when the city's merchants commissioned Flemish mason and architect Johann den Buschener from Antwerp to design a new building. Construction took place between 1537 and 1538, drawing inspiration from the Renaissance architecture prevalent in Flanders at the time. However, due to financial constraints, the intricate detailing of the façades took considerably longer to complete. Buschener managed to finish the stepped western gable, showcasing a blend of Late Gothic and Renaissance styles, as well as the main entrance, which was initially off-center. In 1565, a local mason named Karsten Husmann crafted the eastern gable in a pure Renaissance style, adding another layer to the building's architectural evolution. The cornice overlooking the market square received a magnificent maritime gable in 1594, further enhancing its visual appeal. During a renovation in 1899, the merchants' coat of arms, featuring a crowned, double-headed imperial eagle symbolizing Bremen's historical identity as imperial traders, was incorporated above the entrance, alongside the city's coat of arms. Below the coat of arms, the motto of Bremen's merchants, "Buten un binnen, wagen un winnen" (Outside and inside, venture and win), was inscribed, encapsulating the spirit of Bremen's traders who dared to risk their assets both at home and abroad to achieve success. This Low German phrase, conceived by Mayor Otto Gildemeister, served as a constant reminder of the values that drove Bremen's economic prosperity. Tragically, on October 6, 1944, the Schütting was almost entirely destroyed by fire during World War II, leaving only the outer walls standing. However, the city was determined to restore this important landmark. Reconstruction began, and in 1951, the Chamber of Commerce was able to move back into the ground floor. The exterior was meticulously rebuilt to match its pre-war appearance, with the exception of the roof dormers facing the market square, which were never replaced. The interior, however, was reconfigured to meet the needs of the modern Chamber of Commerce. The name "Schütting" itself has several possible origins. One theory suggests a Norwegian derivation from the word "skotting," referring to meeting houses. Another proposes a connection to the verb "to pour," as the merchants' financial resources were "poured together" in this building. A third possibility links it to "shooting," either in reference to small model ships that once hung in the Schütting or as a term for the levy of taxes. Today, Haus Schütting stands as a proud symbol of Bremen's economic independence and its commitment to fostering the success of its business community. The Bremen Chamber of Commerce continues to play a vital role in representing the interests of local businesses, providing support and resources to its approximately 43,000 member companies. While Haus Schütting primarily functions as the Chamber of Commerce and does not offer formal tours, its architectural splendor and historical significance make it a captivating attraction for visitors to Bremen. Its location on the Marktplatz, surrounded by other iconic landmarks such as the Bremen Town Hall, the Roland Statue, and Bremen Cathedral, further enhances its appeal. Visitors can admire the building's ornate facade, characterized by its Renaissance-style gables, intricate carvings, and the prominent display of the city's and merchants' coats of arms. The inscription of the merchants' motto serves as a powerful reminder of Bremen's trading heritage. The surrounding Marktplatz offers a vibrant atmosphere with its array of shops, cafes, and local vendors, providing an opportunity to experience the city's culinary delights and browse local crafts. A stroll through the nearby Böttcherstraße, a unique street showcasing a blend of traditional and Expressionist architecture, is also highly recommended. For those interested in delving deeper into Bremen's history, guided tours of the Marktplatz and the Town Hall are available, offering insights into the city's rich cultural heritage. The Bremen Town Musicians statue, located just a short walk from the Schütting, is another must-see attraction, immortalizing the Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in Bremen's unique atmosphere, Haus Schütting is an essential stop on any visit to this Hanseatic city. Its enduring presence on the Marktplatz serves as a constant reminder of Bremen's proud past and its unwavering commitment to commerce and innovation.

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