PATRICIAN HOUSE NO. 145
Introduction
House No. 145 is among the most architecturally distinctive buildings on Republic Square. At first glance, it draws attention with two entrance portals – one Baroque and one Renaissance – complemented by a later shop entrance with display window. This combination is the result of complex historical development.
History
The Renaissance core dates from the 1540s. In 1571–1572 the property was acquired by the Nuremberg merchant Hans Zeileisen. The house thus became the property of the ennobled Zeileisen family, whose coat of arms remains visible on the portal.
The Baroque rebuilding took place around 1770. The façade, dated 1760, reflects late Baroque forms with emerging Classical tendencies. Its present appearance follows restoration research.
Architecture
The façade is articulated by a shallow central projection with three window axes emphasised by paired pilasters. The outer axes are framed by corner rustication.
The late Baroque portal in the left part is decorated with vases and pipe motifs. Above the keystone is the Zeileisen coat of arms. The central shop entrance with display window dates from 1914.
Interior
Historic vaults survive in the side wings, including a room with a cross vault. These elements testify to the high level of historic craftsmanship.
Renaissance Portal from House No. 139
A second Renaissance portal was transferred here from House No. 139 after its demolition in 1984. It is an aedicule-type portal framed by baluster columns with leafy capitals. The profiled cornice carries a superstructure with a divided fanlight. Above it appears the monogram 15–HB–41, referring to the builder Hans Bauer and the year 1541.
After demolition, the portal was stored and later rescued and reinstalled thanks to Jiří Kaucký Sr.
The Zeileisen Family
The Zeileisen family originated from Nuremberg and was ennobled by Emperor Charles V on 12 May 1544. Hans Zeileisen settled here in 1571–1572. The family also engaged in philanthropy; Erhart Zeileisen founded the Hundbek-Zeileis scholarship.
In 1786 Johann Nepomuk Mießl, who married a descendant of the family, received the title “Edler von Zeileisen.”
Later Owner
The house is also linked to Norbert Hermann, a Jewish textile merchant. After the annexation of the border region, he was expelled by the Nazis, his records confiscated and collected debts diverted to the NSDAP treasury.
Present State
The current gable dates from 2003 and replaced the former roof with five dormers. The renovation preserved the historic character while ensuring structural stability.
Photo gallery: https://www.rajce.idnes.cz/mipalfi/album/jachymov-patricijsky-dum-cp-145
