Greiffenclau Hof historic building in Frankfurt Germany

Greiffenclauer Hof (Greiffenclau'Sches Haus)

Greiffenclauer Hof Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Frankfurt Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Greiffenclauer Hof, also known as Greiffenclau’sches Haus, is a distinguished patrician townhouse that stands as a testament to Frankfurt’s rich historical and architectural heritage. Situated in both the heart of Frankfurt’s reconstructed Old Town (Altstadt) and the picturesque Höchst district, this remarkable building bridges the medieval past with the city’s vibrant present. This guide provides comprehensive information on its history, cultural significance, architectural features, visiting hours, ticket policies, accessibility, and practical tips for exploring the site and its surroundings. Whether you are a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or casual traveler, the Greiffenclauer Hof is a must-see destination among Frankfurt historical sites (Mapcarta, Visit Frankfurt, Pro Höchst, Frankfurt Museums).

Historical Background and Cultural Significance

The Greiffenclauer Hof is deeply intertwined with the history of the Greiffenclau family, who rose to prominence in the late Middle Ages. As influential members of the Holy Roman Empire, their presence in Frankfurt—an imperial city renowned for coronations and trade—reflects the city’s historic status as a power hub in Central Europe. The family’s legacy is etched not only in the stone and ornamentation of the house but also in the city’s social fabric, where patrician families shaped civic life and urban development (Mapcarta, Explore City Life).

Frankfurt, a site of major historical events since the Carolingian era, is home to a constellation of important landmarks. The Greiffenclauer Hof stands among these as an emblem of the merchant and noble culture that contributed to the city’s rise and prosperity.

Architectural Evolution and Features

Old Town (Altstadt) Location

In the Altstadt, near Römerberg, the Greiffenclauer Hof exemplifies late Renaissance and early Baroque architecture. The façade showcases:

Sandstone Detailing: Local red sandstone frames windows, cornices, and sculptural elements.
Ornate Portal: Heraldic carvings recounting the Greiffenclau family’s history.
Symmetrical Windows and Gabled Roof: Stepped gables and balanced window placement create an iconic street presence (e-a-a.com).

The interior, though rarely open to the public, historically included central courtyards, ornate stucco ceilings, wood paneling, and grand staircases.

Höchst District Location

In the Höchst district, Greiffenclauer Hof (Rüffersches Haus) is found on Wed 13. Built around 1590 by Oswald and Jakob Stupanus, it features:

Reconstructed Renaissance Gable: Marking a transition from medieval to Renaissance styles.
Stone-Framed Windows: Accentuating the three-story façade.
Historic Coats of Arms: Including those of the von Heusenstamm family and Greiffenclau, reflecting its varied ownership (Deutsche Digitale Bibliothek, Pro Höchst).

Both sites survived the devastation of World War II, making them rare and invaluable links to Frankfurt’s pre-modern past. Restoration efforts have focused on authentic materials and craftsmanship, ensuring their continued presence in the city’s urban tapestry (Visit Frankfurt).

Visiting Greiffenclauer Hof: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Old Town (Altstadt)

Visiting Hours: The exterior can be viewed at any time. The interior is not generally open to the public due to private ownership, but occasional open-house events or virtual tours may provide access (Visit Frankfurt).
Tickets: No ticket is required to view the exterior; guided tours including the Hof are sometimes available.
Accessibility: The area is pedestrian-friendly, though cobblestone streets may pose challenges for wheelchair users.

Höchst District

Location: Wed 13, Höchst’s Altstadt. Reachable via S-Bahn lines S1 or S2 to Höchst Bahnhof, followed by a 10-minute walk (Pro Höchst).
Current Status: As of July 2025, the building is undergoing restoration and is not open for interior visits (Frankfurter Neue Presse).
Tickets: No tickets are required to view the exterior.
Accessibility: The building is not wheelchair accessible during restoration, but the main old town paths are generally navigable.

Guided Tours, Cultural Events, and Educational Resources

Tours: Both locations are included in guided walking tours that highlight architectural and historical significance. During restoration, tours in Höchst focus on the exterior. In Altstadt, guided and self-guided tours are often available, with informational plaques in German and English (Frankfurt Museums).
Cultural Programs: Greiffenclauer Hof has served as a cultural hub, hosting citizens’ associations and events. After restoration, more activities are expected to resume.
Educational Resources: Interpretive signage, digital guides, and virtual tours are available through the Frankfurt tourism portal, Institute for the History of Frankfurt, and local heritage organizations.

Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries

Pair your visit to Greiffenclauer Hof with other nearby landmarks:

Römer (Frankfurt City Hall)
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral
Historical Museum Frankfurt
Altes Höchster Schloss (Old Höchst Castle)
St. Justinus Church
Bolongaropalast
Market Square with half-timbered houses and cafés

A recommended itinerary in Höchst: Start at Höchst Bahnhof, walk through the old town to Greiffenclauer Hof, then proceed to the castle, church, and riverside.

Photography and Accessibility Considerations

Best Times for Photography: Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the building’s stonework and gable. During December, festive lighting from the nearby Christmas Market adds atmosphere.
Practical Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets; restoration scaffolding may limit some photo angles. Translation apps are helpful for signage in German.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I visit the interior of Greiffenclauer Hof?
A: The interior is generally not accessible due to private ownership or ongoing restoration. Occasionally, special tours or virtual events may offer access (Frankfurter Neue Presse).

Q: Are there tickets required?
A: No tickets are needed to view the exterior at either location. Guided tours may require advance booking and a fee.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: The Altstadt location is pedestrian-friendly, but cobblestones may be difficult for some. The Höchst building is not accessible during restoration.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided walking tours are available in both districts, though access to the building interior is currently restricted.

Q: How do I get there from Frankfurt city center?
A: For the Höchst location, take S-Bahn lines S1 or S2 to Höchst Bahnhof and walk 10 minutes. For the Altstadt, use the U-Bahn or tram to Dom/Römer or Hauptwache.

Visual Highlights

Include high-quality photographs of Greiffenclauer Hof’s façade, architectural details, and surroundings where possible. Interactive maps and virtual tours are available through official tourism websites for planning your visit.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Check Restoration Status: Confirm opening hours and restoration updates before visiting (Frankfurter Neue Presse).
Attend Local Events: Plan your trip around events like the Höchster Schlossfest or the Christmas Market (Visit Frankfurt Events).
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Sample regional delicacies at nearby cafés and taverns.
Use Public Transport: Parking is limited in historic districts—public transport is recommended.
Respect Restoration Works: Observe signage and barriers during ongoing renovations.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Greiffenclauer Hof is a vital link to Frankfurt’s patrician legacy and a window into centuries of urban and architectural evolution. Although interior access may be restricted due to ownership or renovation, the building’s exterior and its context within both the Old Town and Höchst offer rich opportunities for exploration. By integrating a visit to Greiffenclauer Hof with other historical sites, guided tours, and cultural experiences, you will gain a deeper understanding of Frankfurt’s past and present.

Download the Audiala app for expert audio guides and curated walking tours of Frankfurt’s historic sites, including Greiffenclauer Hof. Follow official tourism channels for updates on restoration, events, and guided tour availability.