Alsfeld

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In 1975, Alsfeld in Upper Hesse was recognized as a model town for its long-standing tradition of monument protection, alongside notable cities like Berlin and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This acknowledgment highlights the remarkable preservation of historic buildings, including numerous timber frame structures dating back to the 14th century. The town's marketplace, featuring the significant Weinhaus and Hochzeitshaus, stands as one of Germany's key architectural complexes. Notably, the town hall, which inspired many successors, faced demolition in 1878 until local protests led to its preservation, marking the beginning of Alsfeld's commitment to safeguarding its heritage. Today, the main streets showcase a unique architectural unity, offering an exceptional glimpse into a small German medieval town. This volume aims to present Alsfeld not merely as a "timber-frame museum," but also to illustrate its evolution over the past century. It juxtaposes contemporary photographs by Uwe Rudenburg with images from around 1880 by Ludwig Bickell, Hesse's first Provincial Conservator, capturing the town's transformation amidst historical upheavals.