Hexenbürger­meisterhaus

One of the most important town houses in north-west Germany is the so-called Hexenbürgermeisterhaus, built in 1568-71 for Hermann Kruwel and his wife Lisbeth Fürstenau. Kruwel was mayor from 1572-82. The house owes its name to a later resident and successor in office, Herman Cothman, who was responsible for the execution of some 90 alleged witches and sorcerers in 1662-82.

Of note is the stone façade, attributed to Lemgo master builder Hermann Wulff, added to the half-timbered building in 1571. A stepped gable with spiral steps completes the front. Contrary to classical architectural theory, the half-columns between the cornices are staggered. Rather than illustrating structural theory, they serve as ornamental decoration. Above the doorway is Kruwel's inscription and the figures of Adam and Eve, with the Tree of Knowledge between them. The admonishing Fall of Man is juxtaposed with seven reliefs of virtues recommending a godly way of life on the bay window to the left and the oriel window to the right. In the gable, a blessing Christ with the globe completes the series. It reflects the religious beliefs of the Protestant builder and his wife.

The Hexenbürgermeisterhaus has housed the Lemgo City Museum since 1926. It is one of the oldest municipal museums in East Westphalia-Lippe.