Rathaus Falkensee

Rathaus Falkensee, situated in the charming town of Falkensee in Brandenburg, Germany, is a splendid example of neoclassical architecture and a symbol of the town’s rich history and community spirit. This administrative complex, located at Falkenhagener Straße 43-49, is not just a center for municipal governance but also a historical landmark that tells the tale of Falkensee’s growth and transformation over the years.

The History of Rathaus Falkensee

The story of Rathaus Falkensee begins in the late 19th century when Falkensee was experiencing a surge in population. The town’s first full-time mayor, Ernst Freimuth, recognized the need for a representative administrative building that could serve the growing community. The chosen site was the former Oberförsterei, a forestry office, which was demolished to make way for the new Rathaus. The construction of the three-story neoclassical building began but was delayed due to the First World War. It was finally completed in 1918, incorporating the old cellar vaults of the former forestry house into its structure.

With the merging of the rural communities of Falkenhagen and Seegefeld in 1923, forming the town of Falkensee, the need for a larger administrative space became apparent. In 1928, under the guidance of Berlin architect Paul Ueberholz, a mirror-image extension was added to the existing Rathaus. The construction was carried out by the local firm Max Schröder. This expansion included additional buildings on either side of the main Rathaus, creating a three-part administrative complex that also housed the local fire station and other municipal facilities.

In 1961, Falkensee was granted city rights, and the Rathaus became the official seat of the city administration. The post-reunification period saw a significant increase in Falkensee’s population, leading to the establishment of new residential areas such as Gartenstadt Falkenhöh, Parkstadt in Finkenkrug, and Seegefeld-Ost. This population boom necessitated further modifications and expansions of the Rathaus to accommodate the growing administrative needs.

Architectural Splendor

The architectural elegance of Rathaus Falkensee is evident in its neoclassical design. The main building is topped with a hipped roof covered in red tiles, crowned by an octagonal grey roof lantern that houses the Rathaus clock and serves as a public viewing tower. The main entrance, accessible via three steps, is framed by stucco decorations featuring intricate motifs of vines, animals, humans, and fruits. Pilasters and decorative gables further enhance the grandeur of both entrances.

The facade facing the street stretches 40 meters in length and approximately 15 meters in width, with an 11-meter by 11-meter annex extending towards the courtyard. The courtyard-facing roof is equipped with solar panels, reflecting the town’s commitment to sustainable energy.

Inside the Rathaus

Inside, the Rathaus boasts a variety of historical and functional spaces. One of the highlights is the impressive council chamber, adorned with stained glass windows designed by artist Artur Schalk and crafted by the Carl Busch stained glass studio in Berlin. These windows depict various figures, including a fisherwoman, a farmer, an engineer, and a flower seller, symbolizing different aspects of the community. These beautifully restored windows are a testament to the town’s appreciation for art and history.

The Rathaus also features windows donated by local merchants and traders, each bearing inscriptions that commemorate the donors. This gesture not only added to the aesthetic appeal of the building but also fostered a sense of community pride and involvement.

Since 2012, the Rathaus has housed several key municipal departments, including the archive, street construction, building, real estate, press office, registry office, tax and fees department, city treasury, fire department, and the city council office. The former functions of the Bürgeramt (citizens' office) were relocated to a new building on Poststraße 35, which also serves as the tourist information center.

A Cultural Landmark

Rathaus Falkensee is not just an administrative hub; it is also a cultural beacon. The building is recognized as a cultural monument, and the city administration actively participates in the annual Open Monument Day in September, inviting residents and visitors to explore its historical and architectural treasures.

Surrounding Attractions

The area surrounding Rathaus Falkensee is rich in historical and cultural landmarks. In front of the Rathaus, visitors can find a historic millstone from the mill that once stood on Falkenhagen Hill, as well as a milestone inscribed with distances to nearby locations such as Paretz and Ketzin. Just a short stroll away, at Falkenhagener Straße 77, lies the Falkensee Museum, which showcases exhibits related to the town’s history. The museum also features a functioning 200-year-old bread oven, which is used during the annual Bread Oven Festival, organized in collaboration with the city administration.

In conclusion, Rathaus Falkensee is more than just a municipal building; it is a symbol of the town’s heritage and community spirit. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Falkensee. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Rathaus Falkensee offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of this charming Brandenburg town.