Renovation of the town - Policy for urban development in the year 1325

In the heart of Gießen, a city in Germany, a 700-year-old document has been preserved with great care, shedding light on the city's history. This thin and worn parchment, written in Latin, was discovered in an iron case in 1822 and has since been moved between various containers, including trunks, chests, cartons, and vaults.

The document, granted by Otto, the Landgrave of Marburg and later the ruler of Hesse, dates back to 1325. This significant piece of history marked a turning point for the young city of Gießen, as Otto was bestowing a privilege upon the citizens of the New Town.

At the time, the New Town was established outside the city walls due to limited space within. The citizens of the New Town were granted the same rights as those living within the city walls, a decision that was stated clearly in the document. Notably, Otto and his officials did not intend to impose additional burdens on the new citizens compared to the "old citizens".

The upgrade of the quarter in front of the New Town gate had a positive economic impact on the city. It promoted immigration, stimulated trade and crafts, and filled the city coffers of Gießen. The parchment piece, though missing its seal today, was valuable, worth its weight in gold.

The name of the Landgrave who granted the privilege in 1325 was Henry II of Hesse. The New Town in Gießen was first documented in 1307, and the parchment piece from that year was significant for the city. The upgrade of the quarter in front of the New Town gate had a lasting impact, shaping the city's growth and development.

Today, this document is considered a treasure and is handled with the utmost care. Despite its age and wear, the contents are barely legible, offering a glimpse into the past and a testament to the city's rich history.