Zeughaus (Reiterbau)

The Zeughaus (Reiterbau) stands in Ulm, Germany, as part of a historic complex once serving as the city’s armory. It began as Ulm’s armory in the fourteenth century. The complex expanded substantially during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, adding further buildings. The Reiterbau dates from 1597 and presents a richly decorated gateway bearing Ulm’s city coat of arms.

World War II damaged much of the complex. Restoration work in the late 1970s followed a concept of critical partial reconstruction. Some wartime damage therefore remains clearly visible. The east wing retains a Renaissance archway, while parts of the northern wing remain preserved. Those elements show architectural styles from their periods.

The Löwenbau remains largely preserved and provides space for exhibitions and events. Built between 1666 and 1667, it retains sgraffito plasterwork that survived the wartime bombings. Its sgraffito plasterwork survived the wartime bombings. The gateway’s city coat of arms remains a distinct visual marker of Ulm.