History of Itzehoe

Itzehoe is one of the oldest cities in the state of Schleswig-Holstein in northern Germany. Its rich past is inextricably linked to the history of the entire region, ranging from the era of the Frankish kings to the development of major trade routes.

Foundation and First Mentions

The origins of the city date back to the early 9th century. It is believed that the predecessor of Itzehoe was the fortress of Esesfeld, erected in 809 by order of Charlemagne to protect the borders of the empire. Over time, the settlement shifted to a more convenient location in a bend of the river. A formal milestone in its history was the year 1238, when Count Adolf IV of Holstein granted Itzehoe municipal rights under "Lübeck Law," legally establishing its status as a city.

Key Factors of Establishment

The transformation of a small fortification into a prosperous city was driven by several factors:

• Geography and the River Stör: Its location on a navigable river flowing into the Elbe made the city an important port. This allowed for active trade and provided a connection to the North Sea.
• Trade Routes: The historic overland route "Ochsenweg" (Oxen Way) passed through the city, used for driving livestock from Denmark to the south of Europe.
• Administrative Centre: Itzehoe long served as a residence for local nobility, which contributed to the influx of capital and the development of infrastructure.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of the early period was based on the transit trade of grain, livestock, and timber, as well as on crafts. A major cultural and spiritual event was the founding of a Cistercian convent in the mid-13th century. This abode not only defined the spiritual life of the citizens but also owned vast lands, exerting significant influence on the region's economy. Notably, the convent has survived to this day as a noble convent, remaining a living witness to the city's centuries-old history.

Major Historical Milestones

• 809 — Charlemagne orders the construction of the Esesfeld fortress, which became the predecessor of the modern settlement.
• 1238 — Count Adolf IV officially grants Itzehoe city rights, fostering the development of trade and crafts.
• 1256 — A Cistercian convent is founded, playing an important role in the spiritual life of the region and surviving to the present day.
• 1533 — During the Reformation, the monastery is transformed into a noble convent, remaining a significant social institution.
• 1657 — During the Dano-Swedish War, the city is almost completely destroyed by a fire set by Swedish troops.
• 1807 — Itzehoe briefly becomes the de facto capital of the region, sheltering the government from Napoleonic troops.
• 1863 — The opening of the "Alsen" cement factory marks the beginning of the city's rapid industrial development.
• 1867 — The city becomes part of Prussia, becoming the administrative centre of a newly formed district in the province of Schleswig-Holstein.
• 1946 — The city's population doubles due to the mass arrival of refugees from various parts of Germany after World War II.
• 1992 — The opening of the new city theatre building, which became an architectural landmark and the cultural hub of the city.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The history of Itzehoe is a dynamic process of changing eras, transforming a medieval fortification into a modern centre for high technology in northern Germany. Each century brought new features to the city's appearance, shaping its unique economic and cultural landscape.

• Gaining Trade Independence (1238): Obtaining rights under "Lübeck Law" became the foundation of the city's economy. This allowed Itzehoe to hold its own fairs and conduct duty-free trade, turning it into a key transit point on the River Stör and laying the foundations for merchant prosperity.
• Reformation and Preservation of the Convent (16th Century): A major cultural transformation occurred when the Cistercian monastery was converted into a noble convent. This institution retained its influence and land holdings, remaining a centre of attraction for the aristocracy and forming an elite layer of society.
• Urban Renaissance (post-1657): The reconstruction of the city after the devastating fire of the Dano-Swedish War defined the modern layout of the historic centre. New buildings rose from the ashes, many of which are architectural monuments today.
• Industrial Breakthrough (19th Century): The discovery of chalk deposits and the founding of the "Alsen" cement factory (1863) radically changed the economy. The city shifted from crafts to heavy industry, and products from Itzehoe became in demand worldwide, including for the construction of the Statue of Liberty in New York (cement barrels were supplied).
• Status as Administrative Centre (1867): Joining Prussia and obtaining the status of a district capital (Kreisstadt) led to the development of administrative infrastructure. The construction of the railway and government institutions strengthened the city's political weight in the region.
• Post-War Urbanisation (Mid-20th Century): Sharp population growth due to resettlers after World War II stimulated large-scale housing construction. The city significantly expanded its boundaries, with new neighbourhoods and social facilities appearing.
• Technological Modernisation (Late 20th – 21st Century): The shift in development focus from heavy industry to innovation was marked by the opening of the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicon Technology (ISIT). Today, Itzehoe is known as a high-tech hub, attracting scientists and investment in the field of microelectronics.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Development

The architecture of Itzehoe represents a unique chronicle, intertwining traces of the medieval past, the bourgeois flourishing of the 19th century, and bold modern solutions. Due to the devastating fire of 1657, practically no medieval wooden structures remain in the city; therefore, the historic centre was formed mainly in the Baroque and Classicism eras, and was later supplemented by buildings in the styles of Historicism and Modernism.

Evolution of Styles and Eras

The urban development of the city can be roughly divided into several key stages, each leaving its mark on the appearance of the streets:

• Brick Gothic and Baroque: The oldest surviving structures relate to religious architecture. Although the original Gothic forms were modified, brickwork remains a dominant element. The reconstruction of the city in the second half of the 17th century introduced Baroque elements, characteristic of the noble estates and administrative buildings of that time.
• Historicism and the Gründerzeit (19th Century): Industrialisation and the rise of the cement industry led to the appearance of wealthy villas and public buildings. During this period, elements of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Gothic were actively used, emphasising the status of the growing industrial centre of Germany.
• Modernism and Postmodernism: In the second half of the 20th century, the city expanded through functional development. However, a true gem of modern architecture was the construction of the city theatre in the 1990s, marking a transition to unique designer projects.

Landmark Architectural Objects

The appearance of Itzehoe is formed by several key landmarks that serve as orientation points in the urban environment and reflect the spirit of different centuries:

• Church of St. Lawrence (St. Laurentii): The main temple of the city. Originally a late Gothic hall church, it received Baroque decoration after the fire. Particular attention is drawn to its spire, which is one of the symbols of the city. Inside, unique boxes intended for the nobility and a Baroque altar have been preserved.
• Noble Convent (Adeliges Kloster): The historical core of the city. The complex of buildings surrounding the monastery courtyard has preserved an atmosphere of seclusion and aristocracy. The architecture here is restrained but expressive, with an emphasis on traditional red brick.
• Itzehoe Theatre (Theater Itzehoe): An outstanding example of modern architecture, designed by the famous architect Gottfried Böhm. The building, opened in 1992, stands out for its unusual roof, resembling a tent or sails, and the harmonious use of brick, which links it to the historical tradition of the region but in a bold postmodern interpretation.
• Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus): A building on the market square, the façade of which has been rebuilt multiple times, combining features of different eras. It serves as a reminder of the long history of municipal self-government.

Famous Residents and Natives

The biography of Itzehoe is inextricably linked with the names of talented creators, wise rulers, and public figures. Many of them not only brought fame to the city within Germany but also left a noticeable mark on European culture and history.

• Juliane of Hesse-Darmstadt (1606–1659) — Abbess and patroness.
  A princess who became the head of the Itzehoe noble convent at the height of the Thirty Years' War. Thanks to her wise management and diplomatic talents, the convent was able to survive difficult times, and the city was able to restore its economy. She played a key role in preserving the sovereignty of the abode.
• Wenzel Hablik (1881–1934) — Artist, architect, and visionary.
  One of the brightest representatives of German Expressionism. Although born in Bohemia, it was here that he lived most of his life and created his major works. Hablik is known for his futuristic architectural utopias and unique interiors. A museum named after him is open today in his former home.
• Johann Hinrich Fehrs (1838–1916) — Writer and poet.
  An outstanding man of letters who wrote in the Low German dialect (Plattdeutsch). His realistic novellas and poems described the life and characters of the people of Holstein with deep sympathy, making him a classic of regional literature. He lived and worked in the city for a long time.
• Georg Löck (1798–1858) — Lawyer and political figure.
  A significant figure in the era of the awakening of national consciousness. He was an active fighter for the rights of the duchies of Schleswig and Holstein and a deputy of the Frankfurt National Assembly of 1848, defending liberal and democratic values.
• Sabine Sinjen (1942–1995) — Theatre and film actress.
  A native of the city who became a star of German cinema in the 1950s and 60s. She starred in popular films of that time and shone on the stages of the country's leading theatres, embodying characters in both classical and modern productions.