The Junkernschänke was built in the middle of the 15th century. Prior to this, there was another building on this spot which burned down completely. The town mayor, Giselher Swanenvlogel, lived here during his time in office in the 16th century. Swanenvlogel also had the outer façade affixed with prominent wood carvings in the style of the Renaissance; these carvings lend the building its characteristic appearance. The carvings completed by the wood carver Tile Waßmuth display scenes from the Old and New Testament and various celestial gods next to Swanenvlogel and his wife Othilia. Over the course of the following centuries, the once grand mayor’s house increasingly deteriorated. It gradually regained its old magnificence after myriad construction operations were carried out on the building beginning in the early 18th century. The Junkernschänke is known today as the oldest wine venue in Germany as a gastronomic business was first situated in this house in 1883. It was called the “Old German Wine Tavern.” The city of Goettingen purchased the building in 1930 and leased it to several restaurant operators. Regrettably, by the end of the 20th century, the house was so in need of renovation that it temporarily could not be operated, and the city sold the premises to a private investor. The investor completely refurbished the building from 2003 to 2008. In doing so, particular focus was placed on a reconstruction of the outer façade that would remain true to the original. Historical references and analysis of the colors on the carvings were consulted so the Junkernschänke could shine in its old splendor again. The final reopening of the building in its current form took place in November 2010. The restaurant that presents itself as a steakhouse today is again impressive to behold and has become a popular attraction for many visitors from both near and far
Photo Junkernschänke Göttingen by Ben Thies is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0