2. STATION: "Westfassade der Gießhalle"

The casting shed was completed in 1830. Its glass and iron façade symbolises the importance of the Sayner Hütte as a centre of innovation for the Prussian state. Its builder, the technical director of the Sayner Hütte, Carl Ludwig Althans, systematically transformed the ironworks into a model state-owned enterprise.

When it was taken over by the Kingdom of Prussia in 1815, the Sayner Hütte was integrated into the huge Royal Prussian Ironworks, which also included sites in Berlin and Gliwice (Poland). From then on, the Sayner Hütte produced weapons and ammunition for the fortifications in Ehrenbreitstein and Koblenz, as well as machine parts and ornate iron. 

The spirit of early industrialisation is evident in the casting shed. The iron building houses a large amount of machinery within. Carl Althans geared the entire construction of the hall to the innovative idea of a moving crane system that could reach all areas of the building. 

The structural pointed arches inside the building were replicated in the west façade where they were combined with glass. In this way, the façade offered a view of the interior of the Prussian model factory. Furthermore, the façade could be dismantled and built up again at any time if extensions were needed.

The basement area beneath the casting hall contained the polishing shop rooms, where the castings were prepared for sale.