Altes Rathaus Oldenburg

Surrounded by cafés, restaurants and the shops of the city centre, Oldenburg's mayor has his official residence directly opposite St. Lamberti's Church on the Rathausmarkt. The town hall has stood here since 1355, although it only took on its present form in 1888. There were two previous buildings: the original Gothic house had become so dilapidated at the beginning of the 17th century that Count Anton Günter had it replaced by a then modern Renaissance building. This in turn became too small for the growing city in the 19th century and a new building was erected, this time with stylistic elements of both predecessor buildings: a little neo-Gothic, a little neo-Renaissance.

Mural painting in the town hall hall

The unusual triangular ground plan has remained the same over the centuries, which is due to the cramped building site. In addition, the town hall today, just as it was almost 700 years ago, is an expression and symbol of the pride of Oldenburg's citizens in their city. For this reason, sponsors were quickly found in 2005 to finance the restoration of the town hall hall. In the process, the elaborate paintings with which Friedrich Wilhelm Adels and his son Heinrich decorated the walls below the high, wooden barrel ceiling in 1887 were uncovered: Coats of arms, emblems and floral motifs decorate the large meeting hall, which can, however, only be visited on special occasions.

Chimes and Town Hall Market

With its architecture, the Town Hall is also worth seeing from the outside. Somewhat hidden here is the Oldenburg chimes on the corner opposite the Degodehaus. This chimes at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and plays the Oldenburg anthem and seasonal songs.

The adjacent Rathausmarkt with its local pubs is a lively square and event venue. Markets are held here regularly - from the weekly market to highlights such as the traditional Lamberti Market in the run-up to Christmas.