Bernkastel Town Hall

Built in 1608, Bernkastel's Rathaus (Town Hall) is a striking and historic building that dominates the picturesque market square (Marktplatz).

It is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture in the Moselle region and, together with the surrounding half-timbered houses and the St. Michael's Fountain, forms the heart of the old city centre.

A richly decorated bay window rests on a single basalt column. This is a typical feature of Renaissance town halls in the region. On the roof is a small tower with a chime and a statue of Christ as Salvator Mundi (Redeemer of the world), with a cross on the globe.
The obverse shows various coats of arms: the city coat of arms of Bernkastel (with the bear), the Kurtrierische Cross , which refers to the Archbishopric of Trier and the coat of arms of Archbishop Lothar von Metternich (the builder of the town hall).

The town hall served as the administrative centre of the city and was also a court of law during the time of the Electorate of Trier. The imposing building was intended to radiate power and order.

Willem Vandenameele