Leinwandhaus, Gothic medieval building at Weckmarkt, Frankfurt, Germany
The Leinwandhaus is a Gothic building at Weckmarkt with a steep hipped roof, battlements with hexagonal turrets, and pointed-arch windows that exemplify High Gothic style. Its facade displays the careful detailing characteristic of this architectural period.
The building was constructed between 1396 and 1399 across three adjacent properties and originally served as a marketplace for linen trade. Its creation coincided with Frankfurt's rise as a major trading hub in the region.
The building functioned as a gathering place for city officials in its upper rooms while commerce happened below, reflecting how medieval Frankfurt mixed governance with daily trade.
The interior now houses a museum open on weekdays and weekends, allowing visitors to explore the collections inside. The building sits centrally at Weckmarkt and is easily accessible on foot, with clear orientation in the Old Town area.
Two iron measuring rods called the Frankfurt Elle are embedded in the facade, which merchants once used as standard units for selling cloth. These ancient tools reveal how commerce was conducted centuries ago.
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