Rathaus in Stein am Rhein

The Town Hall in Stein am Rhein (Rathaus) anchors Rathausplatz, the main square of a medieval small town in the Swiss canton of Schaffhausen. Painted walls and an ornate bay window make it one of the most photographed buildings in the old town.

What will you see on the facade?

The painted decoration dominates. Carl von Häberlin of Stuttgart painted the historical scenes, while Christian Schmidt of Zurich added coats of arms and figures. The municipality's own restoration records date the first-floor paintings to around 1900 and note both artists' signatures. They were reworked in three later restoration phases, and the facade renovation wrapped up in 2014. Some guides date the paintings to the 16th century, but the municipal documentation is the more reliable source.

How old is the building?

Construction took place between 1539 and 1542. The half-timbered upper structure was added in 1745-46. The ground floor long served as an open market hall; the building took on its current look in the late 1890s, when the hall was closed in, the bay window was added and the walls were painted.

What is inside?

The Gothic Great Council Hall keeps a collection of coats of arms dating from 1542. The small council hall has hosted council meetings since that same year. The building is still used for administration, so check with the municipality or the tourist office before planning an interior visit.

What else is on Rathausplatz?

Houses with painted facades surround the square. The Haus zum Weissen Adler carries frescoes from around 1520, described as the oldest on the square, and one of the newer works is by Alois Carigiet, dated to about 1956. A slow lap of the square takes a quarter of an hour and pairs well with a walk along the Rhine.

How do you get there?

Stein am Rhein sits on the Rhine where the river leaves Lake Constance (Untersee). The town hall is in the heart of the old town at 47.659 N, 8.860 E, and the centre is easy to cover on foot. From the riverfront it is a few minutes' walk to the square.

Frequently asked questions

Can I photograph the facade?

Yes. The facade is visible from the open square all year round, and daylight shows the paintings best.

Are the town hall frescoes from the 16th century?

No. The building dates from 1539-1542, but the first-floor paintings were made around 1900 and restored afterwards.

Is the town hall still in use?

Yes, the council has met in the small council hall since 1542. Interior access depends on dates, so ask the tourist office.

How long should I plan?

Around 20-30 minutes for the town hall and square, half a day for the whole old town.