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Schiefes Haus: Idstein's Leaning Landmark

Discover the charm of Idstein's Schiefes Haus, a captivating half-timbered building with a unique lean, steeped in history and architectural intrigue, located in the heart of the old town.

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The Schiefes Haus (Crooked House) in Idstein is a captivating sight, drawing visitors with its charmingly skewed appearance. Built in 1727, this half-timbered house stands out with its four stories and distinctive gabled dormers, unusually tall for the town. Over time, structural deficiencies led to its noticeable tilt, adding to its unique character. Today, meticulously restored, it forms part of Idstein's town hall complex. Its striking blue facade and yellow window frames make it a favorite subject for photographers and a memorable highlight of Idstein's König-Adolf-Platz. Explore its quirky angles and delve into the history of this architectural curiosity, a testament to Idstein's rich heritage and enduring charm. The building exemplifies the transition from traditional craftsmanship to modern engineering, showcasing innovative features like its Mansard roof, a design element considered quite modern for its time. A visit promises a delightful blend of history, architecture, and a touch of whimsy.

A brief summary to Schiefes Haus

  • Rodergasse 1/3, Idstein, 65510, DE

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds and have a more intimate experience exploring König-Adolf-Platz and the Schiefes Haus.
  • Bring your camera! The unique architecture of the Schiefes Haus makes for fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding half-timbered buildings.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Hexenturm (Witches' Tower) for panoramic views of Idstein and a glimpse into the town's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Schiefes Haus is centrally located on König-Adolf-Platz in Idstein's old town, making it easily accessible on foot from most points within the Altstadt. From the Rathaus (Town Hall), it's directly adjacent. From the Unionskirche, walk southwest along Obergasse, then turn left onto König-Adolf-Platz; the Schiefes Haus will be on your right. The walk is short and straightforward, with the distinctive blue building clearly visible. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, the nearest bus stop is 'Idstein Wiesbadener Straße'. From there, walk east along Wiesbadener Straße, then turn left onto Limburger Straße. Continue onto König-Adolf-Platz. The Schiefes Haus will be on your left, next to the Rathaus. A single bus fare within Idstein typically costs around €2-3. Alternatively, from Idstein Bahnhof (train station), take a train to Idstein-Wörsdorf Bahnhof, which costs €5-€8.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the vicinity of König-Adolf-Platz. The closest parking options include 'Schlossplatz Parking' and 'Parkplatz am Hexenturm'. Parking fees generally range from €1.50-€2.50 per hour. From the parking areas, follow signs towards the Altstadt and König-Adolf-Platz. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist season.

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Discover more about Schiefes Haus

The Schiefes Haus, or Crooked House, is a prominent and much-loved landmark in Idstein, Germany, instantly recognizable for its charmingly askew facade. Located on the König-Adolf-Platz, at Rodergasse 1/3, this half-timbered building has become an iconic symbol of the town, drawing tourists and photographers alike. Built in 1727 by Johann Jacob Nicolay, a major in the town militia, the Schiefes Haus is notable for its height, standing four stories tall with two gabled dormers, a feature that was unusually grand for Idstein at the time. The building's design reflects a transition from traditional craftsmanship to more modern engineering approaches, incorporating then-contemporary elements like its Mansard roof. Originally, the ground floor featured a passageway, evidenced by the still-visible arch-shaped lintel. The house underwent significant facade alterations in the 18th century. It's believed that the removal of diagonal bracing to create larger rooms led to the gradual shifting of the timber frame structure. Initially conceived as a plastered building, the timber framework was later exposed after World War I, revealing the intricate construction beneath. From 1736 to 1745, the left side of the house served as Idstein's pharmacy. Later, it functioned as both an office building and a private residence. Over the years, subtle but significant structural issues caused the building to lean, giving it the distinctive 'crooked' appearance that endears it to visitors today. Between 1995 and 1997, the Schiefes Haus underwent a complete renovation. Today, it is integrated into the Idstein Town Hall complex, housing municipal offices. Despite its integration into the modern administrative structure, the building retains its historical charm and architectural significance. The Schiefes Haus is more than just a quirky building; it represents a tangible piece of Idstein's history. Its location is significant, situated near the site of the former moat of Idstein Castle. The double address (Rodergasse 1/3) reflects its complex construction history, including substantial additions over time. Visitors to Idstein are invariably drawn to the Schiefes Haus, not only for its visual appeal but also for the stories it holds. It stands as a testament to the town's rich architectural heritage and the enduring appeal of its historic center. The building's striking blue color with yellow window frames makes it a favorite subject for photographers, ensuring its image is widely circulated and admired. Exploring the König-Adolf-Platz, one cannot miss the Schiefes Haus. Its presence adds a unique character to the square, complementing other historical buildings such as the Town Hall and the Killingerhaus. The Schiefes Haus serves as a reminder of Idstein's past, inviting visitors to delve deeper into the town's history and appreciate its architectural treasures. The Tourist Information is located in the nearby Killingerhaus, where visitors can learn more about the Schiefes Haus and other attractions in Idstein. While the interior of the Schiefes Haus is primarily used for administrative purposes, its exterior remains a captivating sight, offering a glimpse into the past and a unique photo opportunity. The Schiefes Haus is a must-see for anyone visiting Idstein, embodying the town's charm and historical significance. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend history, architecture, and a touch of whimsy, making it a truly unforgettable landmark.

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