Langen's Old Town Hall turns 200 with a free open house celebration
Langen's Old Town Hall celebrates its 200th anniversary this year. Built in 1826 when the town was still a modest market hub, the neoclassical building once served as the heart of local government. Now home to the municipal museum, it will mark the milestone with a free open house on March 21.
The town hall's origins trace back to August 1822, when officials first invited tenders for its construction. Initial estimates placed the cost at 4,048 guilders. Yet by completion in 1826, expenses had ballooned to 7,649 guilders—nearly double the budget.
For over a century, the building remained the seat of Langen's administration. That role continued until the 1970s, when government offices relocated. In 1983, the empty structure found new purpose as the municipal museum, now showcasing the Collection on Local History.
The anniversary celebration on March 21 will offer free entry, with no need to book ahead. Visitors can explore hourly short presentations throughout the day. Organisers also welcome donations to support the work of the local history society.
The event highlights the building's shift from civic headquarters to cultural landmark. Free to attend, it invites residents to rediscover a structure that has shaped Langen's identity for two centuries. Donations collected will directly fund the museum's ongoing preservation and educational projects.
