Grashaus (Grass House), Aachen

Grashaus is one of the oldest non-religious buildings still standing in the area. It was built in the early 13th century, around 1260–1267, and served as the first town hall. This was a time when local citizens began running their own affairs instead of depending mainly on church or royal power. City meetings and legal decisions were held here, making it an important place for early local government.

The exterior shows Gothic features like pointed arches, narrow windows, and thick stone walls. Above the windows are stone figures added in the 14th century, usually identified as the Seven Electors who chose the Holy Roman Emperor. Some research suggests King Richard of Cornwall may be among them. The design is simple and solid, shaped by public use rather than decoration.

Inside, the Grashaus once held offices, a courtroom, and later a prison, where serious crimes were judged and executions took place nearby. After a new town hall replaced it in the 14th century, it was reused as a granary and later as the city archive for over 100 years. Today, it is part of the Route Charlemagne as “Station Europa” and serves as an educational center, with interior visits mainly possible through guided tours, often on the first Saturday of the month.