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Historic site · Constança, Baden-Württemberg
Konzilgebäude
Large stone warehouse from 1388 in the harbor of Constança, where in 1417 Pope Martin V was elected during the Council. It is regarded as the largest preserved medieval civic building in southern Germany.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Konzilgebäude
The Konzilgebäude, or simply the Konzil, was built starting in 1388 as a Kaufhaus, a warehouse for merchants. The decision came after a visit by traders from Milão who were looking for a trading post between northern Italy and the Reno. For almost 500 years the building received goods arriving by boat.
In 1417, during the Council of Constança, the building's great hall hosted the conclave that elected Pope Martin V and ended the Great Western Schism, a period when the Church had more than one pope at the same time. It is the only papal election held on German soil.
The three-storey building, with a four-sided pitched roof, was erected on hundreds of oak piles driven into the lake’s wet bottom and formed part of the city wall. It is considered the largest preserved medieval civic building in southern Germany.
Since 1912 it has functioned as a restaurant, banquet hall and events center. The interior can be seen by those who go to the restaurant or to an event; the most common visit is from the outside, by the port.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
15 minutes from the outside; longer if you have a meal at the restaurant.
Best time
At the end of the afternoon, when the port lights up. Access to the hall depends on events and the restaurant; check before you go.
How to get there
It's at the port, about 300 meters from Konstanz station.
Tip
Combine it with the Imperia, which stands on the jetty directly opposite.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Konzilgebäude
Did the Council take place inside the Konzilgebäude?
Not entirely. The major sessions were in the Münster. The 1417 conclave that elected Pope Martin V took place in the Konzilgebäude.
Can you go inside the building?
Today it operates as a restaurant and events venue; the hall can be seen if you go to the restaurant or an event. Check ahead.
What was the building constructed for?
As a warehouse for goods traded with northern Italy, from 1388.