Kempten celebrates 500 years of freedom: The big purchase in focus!

Kempten celebrates 500 years of freedom: The big purchase in focus!

An exciting chapter in Kempten's city history will soon be revived. Dr. Wilhelm Vachenhauer, an economic and social historian from the city, has published an appealing YouTube video that clearly conveys the history of Kempten. In just 10 minutes it's about the emblamatic “Great Purchase” of 1525, which led to Kempten's complete independence from forestry rule. [Trendyone] reports that not only will the 500th anniversary of the “Free Imperial City” be celebrated in 2025, but a major event is also planned for September 27th to properly honor this important event.

The “Great Purchase”, which was signed on May 6, 1525, represents a turning point in Kempten's history. Mayor Gordian Seuter acquired all the rights and possessions of Prince Abbot Sebastian von Breitenstein for almost 30,000 guilders. This purchase was not only a financially challenging matter, but also the result of a centuries-long struggle between the Kempten citizens and the prince abbots. [Merkur] explains that the conflicts can be traced back to the beginnings of the monastery in the 8th century.

From the monastery to freedom

Kempten was founded around 740 by Benedictine monks and developed into an important manor. The abbot and convent of the monastery had extensive rights over the population who fulfilled their duties. Kempten's quest for emancipation, which began in the 13th century, reached a decisive climax with the purchase of 1525. [Historisches-Lexikon] makes it clear that the purchase not only changed the legal status of the city, but also created the basis for an independent municipal administration.

The development of Kempten is particularly clear through significant events in the Middle Ages: the citizens elected their first mayor in 1362 and stormed the prince abbot's castle dump the following year. Over the centuries, the guild constitutions also developed, which ultimately led to the “Great Purchase”.

Celebrating for history

The celebrations on September 27, 2025 promise a festival of remembrance of the achievements of Kempten's citizens in the fight for their freedom. With a major historical ceremony, the city will focus on the events of 1525, which not only influenced Kempten's fate, but also regional history. [Trendyone] emphasizes that Kempten was from then on considered a “Free Imperial City” and the citizens were proud of their new status - a reason for celebration.

For the citizens of Kempten and those interested in history, the contribution by Dr. Vachenhauer is a valuable insight that illuminates the historical dynamics of a city whose roots go back to the early Middle Ages. If you would like to find out more about this important part of the city's history, watch the video on YouTube. An entertaining and educational piece as part of the celebrations that no one should miss!

The history of Kempten is not only educational, it also shows how important it is to know the past in order to shape the present and future. Cheers to the city of Kempten and its extraordinary heritage!