Städtische Badeanstalt Neuwied

The Städtische Badeanstalt Neuwied, nestled in the heart of Neuwied, Germany, is a fascinating relic of early 20th-century public architecture and a testament to the community spirit of its time. This historical bathhouse, opened on June 22, 1908, was a gift to the city from the generous benefactor and honorary citizen Julius Remy. Though it no longer serves its original purpose, the building stands proudly as a monument to Neuwied's rich history and cultural evolution.

The Origins and Construction of the Bathhouse

The story of the Städtische Badeanstalt begins in the late 19th century following the demolition of the old Catholic church on the upper Marktstraße. Julius Remy, a prominent figure in Neuwied, envisioned a modern public bath that would cater to the hygienic needs of the city's residents. He enlisted the expertise of architect Wilhelm Knoppe from Cologne to design a state-of-the-art facility that would not only serve practical purposes but also stand as an architectural marvel.

The construction was a significant investment, with costs initially estimated at 160,000 Marks. However, the final expenditure soared to 271,000 Marks, a testament to the ambition and scale of the project. The bathhouse was designed to be one of the most modern in Germany, featuring a large swimming hall with niches and galleries, showers, and bathtubs—a true luxury for the citizens of Neuwied at the time.

The Grand Opening and Public Reception

The opening of the Städtische Badeanstalt was a grand affair, marked by speeches from Mayor Walter Geppert, Julius Remy, and architect Wilhelm Knoppe. For the citizens of Neuwied, it was a day of celebration and discovery, as they explored the luxurious amenities their new bathhouse offered. The facility quickly became a source of local pride and was even heralded by newspapers as one of the finest public baths in Germany.

The bathhouse offered a variety of services at prices accessible to the general public. A shower cost a mere 15 Pfennigs, while a bath without linen was 40 Pfennigs. Swimming lessons were available for 10 Marks. Saturdays and the days before holidays were particularly busy, as families flocked to enjoy the communal experience of bathing and swimming.

A Hub for Community and Sport

The Städtische Badeanstalt was more than just a place for bathing; it was a community hub where local clubs and organizations gathered. In 1909, the Neuwied Swimming Club (NSV) was founded to promote swimming as a sport. The club gained fame through competitive events and exhibitions, with member Hermann Heibel even participating in the 1936 Olympic Games. A women's swimming club also emerged, known for its water ballet performances.

The bathhouse also hosted lifesaving courses conducted by the local chapter of the Life-Saving Society and served as a winter training ground for the Gymnasial Turn- und Ruderverein Neuwied, a historic rowing club.

Renovations and Modernization

Post-World War II, the bathhouse underwent significant renovations to repair war damage and modernize its facilities. In 1951, the swimming hall was updated, the heating system was converted from coal to gas, and a modern water regulator was installed. The renovations also included the expansion of the swimming hall and galleries to accommodate up to 850 spectators during competitions.

Closure and Preservation

Despite its popularity and historical significance, the Städtische Badeanstalt faced closure in 1985 due to a leaking swimming pool. The cost of repairs was prohibitive, leading to its eventual shutdown. However, the building's architectural and cultural value was recognized, and in 1988, it was designated a cultural monument. Between 1997 and 1999, the bathhouse was carefully restored in accordance with heritage preservation guidelines.

Today, the former bathhouse serves as a vibrant office complex, retaining its historical charm while adapting to modern uses. It stands as a symbol of Neuwied's commitment to preserving its heritage and continues to intrigue visitors with its storied past. The Städtische Badeanstalt Neuwied is a must-visit for those interested in the architectural and cultural history of this charming German city.