Nestled in the heart of Krefeld, Haus Floh stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural elegance. This late Baroque patrician house, located at the bustling corner of Friedrichstraße and Carl-Wilhelm-Straße, was constructed in the 18th century by the renowned silk baron Johann von der Leyen. Over the years, it has hosted an array of illustrious guests, including the likes of Cologne's Elector Maximilian Franz of Austria, Tsar Alexander I, and Prussian Prince Friedrich Wilhelm III.
Haus Floh's story begins in 1766, marking it as one of the pioneering structures of Krefeld's fifth city expansion. Commissioned by Johann von der Leyen, the building was initially plain due to strict regulations by the Prussian building authorities. However, by 1776, the house underwent a transformation, embracing the decorative elements that solidified its status as the most distinguished patrician residence in the city of silk.
The house transitioned through inheritance to the Mennonite von Loevenich family after Johann's daughter, Susanna Maria, married her cousin Peter von Loevenich. It later came into the possession of the Floh family, from whom it derives its current name. The family maintained ownership until 1895, after which the building changed hands to municipal ownership and subsequently to the local savings bank, which restored it in 1927.
The resilience of Haus Floh was tested during World War II when the Friedrichstraße area was heavily bombed in 1943. Remarkably, the western façade of the building survived the devastation. This façade, with its intricate Rococo and early Classicist features, remains a genuine relic from the 18th century, embodying the architectural finesse of its era.
Post-war, the house was reconstructed in 1950, and by 1959, it was acquired by the AOK Krefeld, which has since made it its headquarters. This transition marked a new chapter in the building's storied existence, blending its historical roots with modern functionality.
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Haus Floh exudes the charm of Rococo transitioning into Classicism, with its three-story structure crowned by a hipped roof. The building's corners are accentuated by pilasters, adding a touch of grandeur. Each of the two street-facing facades is divided into five axes by windows topped with segmental arches. The western side features a convex central axis that houses a round-arched portal adorned with acanthus leaf motifs, leading to a balcony with a wrought-iron railing embellished with gilded acanthus leaves.
Above this, the building is crowned with a cartouche displaying the von der Leyen family crest, topped with a crown—a symbol of Johann von der Leyen's ennoblement by Friedrich Wilhelm II in 1786. This section of the façade stands as a proud survivor of the wartime bombings, offering a glimpse into the opulence of 18th-century design.
While much of the original interior was lost to wartime destruction, the 1950s saw the reconstruction of the grand social hall on the ground floor. This room, adorned with depictions of the arts, features a stuccoed ceiling with an oval medallion encircled by floral garlands. The walls are divided into panels adorned with ornamental symbols representing the arts, accompanied by supraportes and cherubs, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to the space.
Today, Haus Floh stands not just as a building, but as a living legacy of Krefeld's rich cultural and architectural heritage. It invites visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur and history that have shaped this remarkable city. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Haus Floh offers a captivating glimpse into the past, making it an essential stop on your journey through Krefeld.
In conclusion, Haus Floh is more than just a historical monument; it is a symbol of resilience and elegance, echoing the stories of the people and events that have passed through its doors. Its walls, steeped in history, continue to tell tales of a bygone era, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the vibrant tapestry of Krefeld's history.
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