Haus Saaleck, Medieval building in Altstadt-Nord, Germany
Haus Saaleck is a medieval building in Cologne's Altstadt-Nord district located at the intersection of Unter Taschenmacher and Am Hof streets. The structure displays late Gothic features with distinctive cross windows and currently houses Cologne's Artothek.
The building first appeared in records in 1281 as property of a stonemason called Theoderich. A significant reconstruction in 1461 introduced the late Gothic style that remains characteristic of its appearance today.
The building functions as Cologne's Artothek, a place where people can borrow artworks, paintings, and sculptures to display in their homes. This role transforms it into a living cultural resource for the community.
The building underwent comprehensive restoration between 2010 and 2014, preserving historical features while adding modern accessibility and facilities. Visitors should note the building sits on an active street in the old town center and is best reached on foot.
The name Saaleck refers to an ancient archbishop's palace near Domhof, with early documents from 1283 calling the building saileckin. This naming history connects the house to Cologne's earlier urban landscape and power structures.
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