Goldene Waage - House of the Golden Scales
Imagine stepping back in time to the Renaissance era, where the Goldene Waage stands as a testament to Frankfurt's rich history and architectural splendor. This iconic half-timbered house, with its striking red-and-white façade and golden scales, invites you to explore the life of Abraham van Hamel, a wealthy Dutch merchant and confectioner. Reconstructed with meticulous attention to detail, the Goldene Waage offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of wealthy merchants' residences in 17th-century Frankfurt. Whether you're a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, this landmark promises an unforgettable experience.
The Goldene Waage is one of Frankfurt's most stunning half-timbered houses, located in the Old Town. Its red-and-white façade, intricate carvings, and golden accents make it a standout near the cathedral.
History
The original house was built around 1618 for Abraham van Hamel, a wealthy Dutch merchant and confectioner. He built the house as a symbol of his wealth and status.
The building survived for more than 300 years until March 22, 1944, when Allied bombing destroyed most of Frankfurt's Old Town, including the Goldene Waage.
For decades, the house existed only in photographs, drawings, and surviving architectural pieces. It was finally reconstructed as part of the Dom-Römer project, which recreated parts of Frankfurt's historic Old Town. The reconstruction was completed in the late 2010s.
Why is it important?
The Goldene Waage shows what wealthy merchants' houses looked like in Renaissance Frankfurt.
It is also important because the reconstruction was exceptionally detailed. Craftsmen researched the original colors, decorations, carvings, and surviving architectural elements to reproduce the building as accurately as possible.
Today, the upper floors are connected with the Historical Museum Frankfurt and contain period-style rooms showing how the wealthy van Hamel family might have lived.
Fun Facts
- The scales are real symbolism: The golden scales are the building's house sign and gave it its name.
- The owner was a confectioner: Abraham van Hamel wasn't just a merchant; he also made and sold sweets.
- He was Dutch: Van Hamel came from the Netherlands and was part of Frankfurt's international merchant community.
- Destroyed in 1944: The original building disappeared during the bombing of Frankfurt.
- It's a reconstruction: What you see today isn't the original 17th-century building, but a highly detailed reconstruction based on historical evidence.
- Extremely handcrafted: Specialists recreated elaborate wood carvings, stucco work, stone elements, and the famous golden scales.
Guide Tips
- Visit during the day to appreciate the intricate details.
- Check out the Historical Museum Frankfurt on the upper floors.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and reconstruction.
Opening Hours
24/7 - External Visit / Café - Daily from 11am to 7pm