At the center of Erfurt’s Old Town is this large building, once a major destination for makers and buyers of handmade items.
Built in the late 1800s, Erfurt’s four-story Gildehaus once housed numerous artisans, serving as a guildhall for local craftsmen to work and show their goods. As you gaze at the structure, try to identify the virtues of justice, prudence, courage and moderation on the façade.
Note that the traditional Gildehaus has transformed from its early purpose to a modernized guildhall, with the creation of Gildehaus GmbH. Rather than the woodworking and textiles craftsmen of yesteryear, the resident company now provides internet support and radio and print advertising. These services are especially valuable for modern craftspeople to showcase their creative goods beyond their workshops.
Gildehaus overlooks Fischmarkt, the central square of Erfurt’s Old Town. Ride the tram through the town and step off here to see the Römer, a Roman warrior bearing a city flag. The statue has been in place for over 400 years.
Find a spot to relax under the awnings of the pizzeria stretching out of Gildehaus into the Fischmarkt. Sip iced coffee and watch people wander through this popular square. Step inside for pizza, pasta or more elegant dining. One section of the restaurant is whimsically decorated with jesters in pastel costumes. In a large painting overlooking the reception area, a bewigged Johann Sebastian Bach is portrayed playing the organ. While Bach would not have visited this pizzeria, he likely walked through the Fischmarkt on his way to nearby Prediger Church.
Attached to Gildehaus is the Renaissance-style Haus ZumBreiten Herd(House with a Broad Hearth), occupied by generations of patricians and city politicians. Lift your glance to the top of the building to see a statue of a pike-wielding German mercenary from five centuries ago. Across the street from Gildehaus is the neo-Gothic Rathaus, Erfurt’s Town Hall, with a beautiful triple-arched façade. Peek inside at the mix of ornate traditional design and modern, airy spaces.
To get to Erfurt’s Gildehaus, ride a tram to Fischmarkt or walk through the narrow, winding streets of Old Town. Wander around the Fischmarkt area to shop for jewelry, watches and other items.
