Alsfeld developed!Completion of the Landgrave’s Castle

Accounts from the late 14th century document the costs incurred when Landgrave Heinrich II had the castle built in Alsfeld. In 1376, Hermann II, also known as “the Learned,” introduced taxes on food, fabrics, and metal goods in his territory. This measure met with fierce resistance, particularly from the citizens of the towns. Nobles, especially the Archbishop of Mainz, supported this criticism of the Landgrave in the hope of increasing their influence.

The construction of the Alsfeld residence should be viewed against the background of these disputes. The castle enabled the sovereign to rule directly over his city by residing within it. In 1395, the “Alsfeld Public Peace” (Landfrieden) was decreed in the new residence, settling many conflicts. After the death of Hermann II in 1413, the residence was converted into a “Rentei” (financial administration office) with a tithe barn. There, the required taxes often had to be paid to the sovereign in the form of produce.

From 1812, the building was used as a district court and was finally demolished in 1847. Only a stone lion has been preserved, which was presumably once attached to the portal. (JP)