Palais Bassenheimer Hof

The construction of the Bassenheimer Hof dates back to 1750. The plans for this urban aristocratic palace were drawn up by Anselm Franz von Ritter zu Grünstein, the Elector's chief architect. The commission for the building was given by Johann Friedrich Karl von Ostein, who had been elected Elector in 1743. The palace was intended as a widow's residence for his sister, Maria Antonetta Countess of Bassenheim, who had five children to care for after the early death of her husband in 1731. The architect was inspired by French Baroque buildings for his designs, particularly by facades such as those of the Place Vendôme in Paris. The original interior furnishings and garden are no longer preserved due to later alterations and war damage.