The Main Station (Hauptwache) in Frankfurt city centre is a Baroque building dating from 1730 and was initially used as a guardhouse. After its destruction during the Second World War, it was initially rebuilt in a simplified form. It was not until 1968 that it was restored to its original state and extended to include the underground station. The station and the square next to it are therefore also called Hauptwache. As part of a renovation, the building was extensively remodelled and the rooms on the ground floor were combined. An extension with a terrace was added to the north, where a café opened in December 1905. This has been preserved to this day.
Sights: Main StationFrankfurt – central square steeped in tradition
When you are out and about in Frankfurt’s lively city centre and walk along Old Bockenheimer Landstraße, also known as Freßgaß, from the Old Opera House, you will come across two central city squares. First, Goethe Square and then Main Station (Hauptwache Frankfurt). These squares are teeming with people at all times of the day. They are on their way to work, out shopping or sightseeing as tourists. A colourful crowd, sometimes strolling, sometimes hurrying, makes its way through. The Hauptwache is one of the most important squares in Frankfurt. From here, you can reach the main shopping street, Zeil.
Café Hauptwache und Katharinenkirche
In the middle of this lively square, you will find a beautiful Baroque building, the Café Hauptwache. When the weather is warm enough, the square in front of the Café Hauptwache (Main Station) is lined with palm trees and outdoor seating. Enjoy the Mediterranean flair and the colourful hustle and bustle of the city. As you sit here, you can look out at St. Catherine’s Church and simply soak up the atmosphere of the big city.
Historical significance of the Main Station
The Historical significance of the Historical significance of the Main Station Frankfurt has stood in this prominent location since 1730 – initially, as its name suggests, as a building for guards. Since 1904, i.e. for more than a hundred years, it has been the Café Hauptwache. As you can see, you are stepping into a place steeped in history.
History: From gallows site to Café Hauptwache
The history of the central square Main Station dates back to the 14th century. During this long period, it served as a place of execution and pillory, a parade ground and a military guard post with a prison. The famous robber chief Schinderhannes was imprisoned here. He was accused of more than 200 crimes. For around 120 years, Frankfurt’s Hauptwache has been used for more pleasant purposes. Today, Café Hauptwache is a popular meeting place.
Special tip: Handkäs mit Musik (cheese with music) or green sauce
The café is ideal as a place to take a break during a sightseeing or shopping trip. You can have breakfast here at the start of the day or eat here during the day. The menu is suitable for every occasion.
If you haven’t tried it yet, you can also sample two Frankfurt specialities: Handkäs mit Musik (cheese with music) or Grüne Soße (green sauce) with egg and potatoes. Prepare to be surprised.
Surroundings: Frankfurt Main Guard near numerous attractions
From Frankfurt’s Main Station, you have plenty of sights in the immediate vicinity. It’s only a few steps to Galeria Kaufhof. If you go to the top floor, you’ll reach the Galeria panorama terrace. From here, you have a breathtaking view of the Frankfurt skyline.
Historic centre around St Paul’s Church
If you then walk along Liebfrauenstraße and Neue Kräme, you will reach the historic centre of Frankfurt, the venue of the first German National Assembly.
Römerberg and New Old Town
A few more steps will take you to Römerberg. There is a special atmosphere here. Tourists from many countries flock here, and street performers often enliven the square. Above all, the historic backdrop makes Römerberg the most beautiful square in Frankfurt.
Here you can see the Römer, the famous town hall, which has been the seat of the mayor of Frankfurt since 1405. Opposite are beautiful half-timbered houses. Behind them, the New Old Town was built a few years ago, a quarter that is largely faithful to the original historic Frankfurt.
All of these attractions are within easy walking distance of Frankfurt’s Hauptwache. If you are exhausted after your sightseeing tour, you can relax and enjoy a coffee at Café Hauptwache.
