Husarenquartier

In the heart of Erftstadt-Lechenich, nestled just off the bustling central market, stands the Husarenquartier, a remarkable testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. This historic building, constructed in 1765, once served as the headquarters for the Electorate of Cologne's mounted gendarmerie, known as the Husarenkompanie. Today, it stands as a cultural monument, drawing visitors with its storied past and charming architectural features.

The Historical Significance of Husarenquartier

The 18th century was a turbulent time for the rural areas of the Electorate of Cologne, plagued by roaming vagrants and bandits. In response, Elector Clemens August established a mounted gendarmerie to restore peace and order. The Husarenkompanie was tasked with maintaining security across the predominantly left-bank areas of the Electorate, with Lechenich as its main base from 1756.

Initially, the gendarmerie had two bases, but by 1756, the headquarters were consolidated in Lechenich. The Husarenquartier became the central hub for these law enforcement officers, who were not military but were instead a police force under the Electorate's jurisdiction. Their primary mission was to apprehend suspicious individuals, ensuring they were brought to justice in the local courts.

The Architecture of Husarenquartier

The Husarenquartier is an impressive two-story brick building with a distinctive mansard roof covered in slate. The building's façade, painted in a striking oxidized red, is accentuated by windows framed in sandstone, each with traditional sash designs. This historic structure has undergone restoration to preserve its original charm, including the vaulted cellar beneath the right side of the building.

On the property, visitors can also find what was once the stables, now repurposed as office spaces. A modern addition to the site is a well adorned with a bronze horse statue, commemorating the area's history of horse breeding rather than its gendarmerie past.

From Gendarmerie Headquarters to French Occupation

As the French Revolutionary Army advanced in 1794, the Husarenkompanie was relocated, and the building was repurposed by the French administration. It became a gendarmerie house, home to a brigadier and three gendarmes with their families. The building remained under municipal ownership after the French era, reflecting its enduring significance in local governance.

The Prussian Era and Beyond

Following the French period, the Husarenquartier served as the district office of the newly formed Lechenich district from 1816 to 1827. It retained its dual function as both an administrative office and a residence for the district administrators. Eventually, the district administration moved to Euskirchen, and the building transitioned into private hands.

A Culinary Landmark

From 1995 to 2017, the Husarenquartier housed a renowned restaurant led by Herbert Brockel, earning a Michelin star from 2000 to 2016. This period marked a new chapter in the building's history, as it became a destination for gourmet dining, attracting food enthusiasts from near and far.

Visiting Husarenquartier Today

Today, the Husarenquartier stands as a symbol of Erftstadt's layered history, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while enjoying the vibrant present of Lechenich. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the town's other attractions, including the nearby Landesburg and the picturesque streets leading to the central market.

Whether you're a history buff keen on uncovering the stories of the Husarenkompanie or a traveler seeking to experience the charm of a quaint German town, the Husarenquartier is a must-visit. Its walls echo the tales of centuries past, inviting you to step back in time and discover the rich tapestry of Erftstadt's history.