Background

Neues Rathaus: Freiburg's Neo-Renaissance Jewel

Discover Freiburg's Neues Rathaus: A captivating blend of Renaissance architecture and civic history in the heart of the city, offering a glimpse into Freiburg's vibrant past and present.

4.2

The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) in Freiburg im Breisgau is more accurately named the 'Not-So-New' Town Hall, as it predates the 'Old' Town Hall. This architectural gem, located on Rathausplatz, blends Gothic and Renaissance elements, showcasing the city's rich history. Originally two separate Renaissance houses, it was transformed in the late 19th century into the unified structure you see today. Inside, visitors can admire the grand staircase, stained glass windows, and ornate ceilings. While primarily a functional civic building, its historical significance and architectural beauty make it a must-see for anyone exploring Freiburg's old town. The building also houses the Tourist Information Center, making it a convenient first stop for visitors. Its central location makes it easily accessible by foot or public transport, allowing for seamless integration into any Freiburg itinerary. Don't miss the Glockenspiel at noon!

A brief summary to Neues Rathaus - Stadt Freiburg i. Br.

Local tips

  • Visit the Tourist Information Center inside the Neues Rathaus for maps, brochures, and expert advice on exploring Freiburg.
  • Time your visit to coincide with the Glockenspiel (carillon) performance at noon for a delightful auditory experience.
  • Explore Rathausplatz, the square surrounding the Neues Rathaus, to soak in the atmosphere and admire the other historic buildings.
  • Take a guided tour of Freiburg to learn more about the history and significance of the Neues Rathaus and other landmarks.
  • Check the local events calendar for festivals, markets, or performances taking place on Rathausplatz during your visit.
widget icon

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.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Freiburg Hauptbahnhof to the Neues Rathaus will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €8-€12. The driver should take you directly to Rathausplatz.

  • 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.

Unlock the Best of Neues Rathaus - Stadt Freiburg i. Br.

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Neues Rathaus - Stadt Freiburg i. Br.

Freiburg's Neues Rathaus, despite its name translating to 'New Town Hall,' boasts a history that stretches back further than its counterpart, the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), creating a delightful paradox for visitors. Situated prominently on Rathausplatz, this architectural landmark serves as a testament to Freiburg's evolving identity and enduring civic pride. The story of the Neues Rathaus begins in the late 19th century when the city sought to consolidate its administrative functions. Rather than constructing an entirely new building, Freiburg ingeniously merged two existing Renaissance structures: the Gerichtslaube (Court Arbor) dating back to 1303 and Haus Zum Walfisch (House to Whale) from around 1490. These buildings had previously served different purposes, one as a courtroom and the other as a private residence, before being reimagined as the 'New' Town Hall. The official name is Gerichtslaube. Between 1896 and 1901, extensive renovations and expansions were undertaken to unify the two buildings. A central connecting structure was added, along with a terrace above the entrance arcade, and the facade and windows were redesigned to create a cohesive architectural statement. The result is a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, characterized by intricate detailing on windowsills, doorways, and rooftop gables. One of the most striking features of the Neues Rathaus is its central tower, which offers panoramic views of Freiburg's old town. The building's whitewashed exterior is adorned with colorful frescoes painted by Fritz Geiges between 1901 and 1916, under the direction of then-mayor Carl Schaechtele. These frescoes depict scenes from local history, adding an extra layer of cultural richness to the building's facade. Stepping inside the Neues Rathaus, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase, stained glass windows, and ornate ceilings. The council chamber, in particular, is noteworthy for its decorative wood paneling dating back to the 16th century. Today, this chamber continues to serve as the meeting place for Freiburg's city council, where important decisions about local community affairs are made. While the Neues Rathaus functions primarily as a civic building, it also houses the Tourist Information Center, making it a convenient first stop for visitors to Freiburg. Here, travelers can gather information about the city's attractions, events, and accommodations, as well as purchase souvenirs and book tours. The location of the Neues Rathaus on Rathausplatz places it at the heart of Freiburg's historic center. The square itself is a vibrant public space, surrounded by other notable landmarks such as the Altes Rathaus and the Freiburger Münster (Freiburg Cathedral). The square also hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual Christmas market. The Neues Rathaus stands as a symbol of Freiburg's commitment to sustainability. In recent years, the city has constructed a new town hall in the Stühlinger district, which is designed to generate more energy than it consumes. This innovative building serves as a model for sustainable urban development and reflects Freiburg's reputation as a 'green city.' Visiting the Neues Rathaus offers a glimpse into Freiburg's past and present. From its architectural grandeur to its role in local governance, the building embodies the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, the Neues Rathaus is sure to leave a lasting impression. Freiburgers especially like to tie the knot in the former offices of the New Town Hall's north wing. The Glockenspiel is played at noon and is a must see.

Popular Experiences near Neues Rathaus - Stadt Freiburg i. Br.

Popular Hotels near Neues Rathaus - Stadt Freiburg i. Br.

Select Currency