Pingelhus: Aurich's Charming Landmark

Discover the Pingelhus in Aurich, a charming landmark with a rich maritime history, serving as a cultural hub and a reminder of the town's enduring spirit.

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Pingelhus

The Pingelhus, a beloved landmark in Aurich, stands as a testament to the town's rich maritime history. Constructed around 1800, this distinctive building once served as the harbor master's office and a vital hub for the region's inland shipping. Its name, derived from the Low German word 'pingeln' (to ring), refers to the bell that was rung to announce the departure of ships heading to Emden. Although the harbor has since been filled, the Pingelhus remains a cherished symbol of Aurich's past. Today, it is home to the local heritage association and Volkstanzgruppe, and the building is also used as a wedding venue. Visitors can admire its unique architecture, learn about its fascinating history, and experience a taste of East Frisian culture. The Georgswall, where the Pingelhus is located, is a green oasis with a reconstructed harbor basin, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.

A brief summary to Pingelhus

Georgswall 2, Aurich, Innenstadt, 26603, DE
+494941120
Visit website

Local tips

Visit during the weekly market (usually Wednesdays and Saturdays) to experience local life and sample regional products near the Pingelhus.
Check the Historisches Museum Aurich's event calendar for traditional East Frisian tea ceremonies held at the Pingelhus.
Take a stroll along the Georgswall, where the Pingelhus is located, to enjoy the green space and reconstructed harbor basin.

Getting There

Walking

From the Aurich central bus station (ZOB), walk southwest along the Bahnhofstraße, then turn left onto Burgstraße. Continue onto Georgswall. The Pingelhus will be on your right, near the reconstructed harbor basin. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, from the Aurich Rathaus (Town Hall) on Bgm.-Hippen-Platz, walk east along the Georgswall. The Pingelhus will be on your left, a short distance away.
Public Transport

Several bus lines stop near the Pingelhus. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Alight at the 'Aurich-Sandhorst B 210/Abzw. Wiesenstraße' stop, which is a short walk to Georgswall. From there, walk towards the Georgswall, and the Pingelhus will be easily visible.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Aurich ZOB (central bus station) to the Pingelhus will take approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12. Specify 'Pingelhus am Georgswall' as your destination.

Discover more about Pingelhus

The Pingelhus, also known as Schuitenhäuschen, is a captivating landmark nestled in the heart of Aurich, East Frisia. This charming building, with its distinctive architecture and rich history, stands as a proud symbol of the town's maritime past. Originally constructed around 1800 by Conrad Bernhard Meyer, the Pingelhus served as the harbor master's office and a crucial center for the region's inland shipping operations. The name 'Pingelhus' is derived from the East Frisian Low German word 'pingeln,' which means 'to ring.' This moniker refers to the bell that once resided in the building's rooftop turret. The harbor master would ring this bell to announce the departure of 'Schuiten,' the inland ships that regularly sailed to and from Emden. This auditory signal was an integral part of the harbor's daily life, informing merchants, sailors, and townspeople of the comings and goings of these essential vessels. The Pingelhus is a two-story structure distinguished by its hipped roof and a small rooftop turret, or 'Dachreiter.' Its architecture reflects the practical yet charming aesthetic of the time. Originally, the ground floor served as a storage area, while the upper level housed the harbor master's office and provided living quarters. However, in 1934, the old harbor was filled in, burying the original ground floor and effectively making the former first floor the new ground floor. For many years, the Pingelhus faced the threat of demolition. However, in 1959, a local citizens' initiative stepped in to save the building from destruction. Thanks to their efforts, the Pingelhus was renovated and repurposed as a meeting place for the local heritage association (Heimatverein Aurich) and a traditional folk dance group (Volkstanzgruppe). Today, the Pingelhus continues to serve as a cultural hub, hosting events, exhibitions, and even weddings. Located on Georgswall, the Pingelhus is surrounded by a green oasis in the heart of Aurich. The Georgswall itself has an interesting history. It was once part of the town's fortifications, but over time, it was transformed into a park-like area. In recent years, the Georgswall has undergone a redesign, with the addition of seating areas, water features, and a reconstructed harbor basin. This basin serves as a reminder of Aurich's maritime past and provides a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and reflect. Visiting the Pingelhus offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of old Aurich. While the building itself may not be open for extensive tours, its exterior is well-preserved and provides a glimpse into the town's architectural heritage. The surrounding Georgswall offers a pleasant space to stroll and admire the Pingelhus from different angles. The reconstructed harbor basin, with its floating letters spelling out 'Oll Haven Auerk' (Old Harbor Aurich in East Frisian dialect), adds a touch of whimsy and local flavor. Beyond its historical significance, the Pingelhus also serves as a reminder of the importance of community and preservation. The story of its rescue from demolition highlights the power of local activism and the dedication of citizens to protecting their cultural heritage. The Pingelhus stands as a symbol of Aurich's identity and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. While in Aurich, visitors can also explore other nearby attractions, such as the Aurich Castle, the Stiftsmühle Museum, and the Energie Erlebnis Zentrum. The town also offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing a complete and enjoyable experience for tourists. Aurich is easily accessible by car, bus, and train, making it a convenient destination for travelers from near and far. The Pingelhus is more than just a building; it is a living piece of history that continues to resonate with the people of Aurich. Its charming architecture, its connection to the town's maritime past, and its role as a cultural center make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting East Frisia. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Pingelhus offers something for everyone. Come and discover the magic of this iconic landmark and experience the heart of Aurich.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Pingelhus: Aurich's Charming Landmark

A brief summary to Pingelhus

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Pingelhus

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Pingelhus

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mausoleum der Familie Cirksena

Upstalsboom

Der schiefe Turm von Suurhusen

Castle Evenburg center for horticulture

Neuharlingersiel harbour

Onnerpolder

Noordelijkste punt van Nederland (Rottumerplaat)

Voormalig stadspoort - Het Klein Poortje, Groningen

Geertruidsgasthuis

Sculptuur Werkman-monument

hartjegroningen.nl

Sint Anthony Gasthuis

Grote Markt

Middeleeuws verdedigingswerk, gebouwd rond 1400 door de bisschop van Utrecht, Frederik van Blankenheim

Groningen City Hall

Unmissable attractions to see

Delftspucker

Dat Otto Huus

Ortseingangsschild Rußland

Wybelsum lighthouse

Pilsum lighthouse

De Kiekkaaste

Carolinensiel harbour

Wadden Sea

Aquarium Wilhelmshaven incl. Prehistoric Sea Museum

Fraeylemaborg

Nordsee Aquarium Borkum

New Lighthouse Borkum

Veenkoloniaal Museum

Vlindertuin Lewenborg

Museumspoorlijn STAR station Stadskanaal

Essential places to dine

Zur Börse

Restaurant Pittoresk

Dörpkroog Mariechen & Drago Gaststätte

Dorfkrug Wiesens

Hotel Herbers + Restaurant "Leon" Efemir GmbH

Aqua Ihlow Bar Restaurant Treffpunkt

Historisches Compagniehaus Restaurant - Saalbetrieb

Weißes Pferd Saal- u. Gaststättenbetrieb

Zur Alten Schmiede

Holtriemer Hof

Gretchen's Grill

Gaststätte Müller-Ardorf

Restaurant Torero

Restaurant Big Ben Wiesmoor

Novel

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Wohnkooje Bettina Rademaker

ONLY

JACK & JONES

KULT

JEANS FRITZ

tredy Fashion GmbH

Der Rosenladen - Blumen für jeden Anlass

Silomon

Ostfriesendealer Sonderposten&Restposten

Das Einhorn

Street One Aurich / Store Kontor GmbH

Abegg GmbH

Chicedine Damenbekleidung/Wohnaccessoires

EuroShop

Ires Dambrowski Ires Inspiration

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Hafen5 Kaffeerösterei und Kontor, Café

Kattul

Hirsch