Gerichtslaube (Court House), Freiburg

The Court House stands as a historic landmark in Freiburg, with a rich history dating back to the 14th century. While it was initially documented as a council building in 1328, it wasn't until the 16th century that it was officially recognized as the Gerichtslaube.

Throughout its long history, the Court House has seen significant changes and endured challenges. During the devastating air raid on Freiburg in 1944, known as Operation Tigerfish, the Gerichtslaube suffered extensive damage, nearly reduced to its foundations. Only fragments of the access staircase and the west wall remained, along with the annex containing the archives, which largely survived the destruction.

Reconstruction efforts commenced in 1961, spearheaded by the Kuratorium Gerichtslaube, a civic initiative dedicated to preserving this historic site. After years of diligent work, the reconstruction reached a milestone with the topping-out ceremony in December 1975, and the Court House was officially inaugurated in June 1979. This successful restoration project allowed future generations to continue enjoying and appreciating the Court House's historical significance.

One remarkable aspect of the Gerichtslaube's history is its connection to a significant event. On August 24, 1498, King Maximilian I issued a wine Reinheitsgebot (Purity Law) during the Freiburg Reichstag, a historic decree that predates the more famous beer purity law established on April 23, 1516.