Beginenhaus Kempten

Nestled beside the tranquil waters of the Iller River in Kempten, Bavaria, the Beginenhaus Kempten stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. With its origins dating back to the 14th century, this remarkable building ensemble, which includes the Beginenhaus and the Nonnenturm, offers a glimpse into the medieval past of this picturesque German town.

The Historical Tapestry of Beginenhaus Kempten

The Beginenhaus Kempten, originally constructed in 1357, was built upon even older foundations. This two-story stone house was uniquely designed with a grand gate hall over four meters high, allowing passage into an inner courtyard and to the rear building, the Nonnenturm. This structure, a massive three-story stone edifice, was directly connected to the town wall, offering both protection and a sense of community to its early inhabitants.

In the late 16th century, the Beginenhaus was expanded, gaining an additional floor and a large Renaissance roof truss. The Nonnenturm, similarly, saw the addition of a residential floor that extended beyond the city wall, giving rise to its tower-like appearance. These expansions reflect the changing needs and tastes of its inhabitants over the centuries.

Exploring the Architectural Wonders

The Beginenhaus Kempten is a treasure trove of architectural details that span several centuries. The facade, which has been carefully studied and preserved, reveals layers of history. During renovations in 2010, fascinating discoveries were made, including evidence of elaborate decorative painting from the 14th century and the Renaissance period. The Renaissance phase featured illusionistic corner quoining and ornate window frames, which will guide future restoration efforts.

The Nonnenturm, with its smaller footprint, boasts impressive features such as barrel-vaulted rooms on the ground floor and a unique wooden ceiling covered with plastered brick tiles for fire protection. This feature is a distinctive characteristic of Kempten's architectural heritage.

A Journey Through Time

Originally, the Beginenhaus was not known by its current name. Instead, it was referred to as the House at the Stairs due to a staircase leading to the city wall's walkway. The term Begine was not commonly used in this region; instead, women living in communal sisterhoods were called daughters or sisters. These communities were numerous in medieval Kempten, with up to 10 different groups coexisting at times.

By the early 16th century, the Beginenhaus had changed hands, passing to wealthy patrician families who expanded and embellished the buildings to reflect contemporary tastes. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in the house's history, leading to its preservation by financially constrained artisan families in the 18th century.

The Modern Era and Restoration Efforts

In the 20th century, the Beginenhaus served various purposes, from a locksmith's workshop to a supermarket, and even housed Kempten's first Italian restaurant in 1963. However, by 1984, the buildings were vacated and left to stand empty, their future uncertain.

Thanks to the dedication of the Förderverein Beginenhaus Kempten e.V., the city reclaimed ownership of the buildings in 2003, initiating plans for their restoration and adaptive reuse. In 2012, the city council approved a comprehensive restoration plan, envisioning a center for book culture, a museum, and a venue for events. Despite setbacks, these efforts continue, driven by a commitment to preserving the rich history embodied by the Beginenhaus Kempten.

Uncovering Hidden Treasures

Archaeological investigations have accompanied all restoration efforts, revealing a wealth of small finds that offer insights into the daily lives of the building's past inhabitants. Among the most significant discoveries was a Venetian silver coin from the late 16th century, as well as intricately crafted bone buttons and a Lefaucheux pistol with pinfire ignition.

These artifacts, along with detailed documentation of the buildings' features, contribute to a deeper understanding of the Beginenhaus Kempten's historical significance and its role in the broader narrative of Kempten's past.

A Future Rooted in History

The Beginenhaus Kempten stands as a symbol of resilience and historical continuity. Its walls, steeped in stories from the past, offer a unique window into the lives of those who inhabited this remarkable building over the centuries. As restoration efforts continue, the Beginenhaus promises to become a vibrant cultural hub, celebrating the rich tapestry of Kempten's history while embracing the future.

For visitors, the Beginenhaus Kempten is not just a historical monument; it is a journey through time, inviting exploration and discovery in the heart of Bavaria. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this architectural gem offers an unforgettable experience, connecting the past with the present in a truly enchanting setting.