On 11 December 1526, a mysterious murder took place at the BLUME. Baden: Gotthard II von Breiten-Landenberg was found stabbed to death, still dressed in his bathing robe. The prime suspect? Jakob Seeholzer, the innkeeper of the BLUME. at the time. But what was his motive? To this day, the exact background and reason for the crime remain unclear.
Gotthard II von Breiten-Landenberg
Gotthard II von Breiten-Landenberg came from a distinguished family that had fallen into financial difficulties. He was known for his conflicts with the Zurich government, particularly after the introduction of the Reformation in 1523. Refusing to continue paying the traditional “wine tax” to the chaplaincy of Turbental – since he no longer supported its religious practices – he renounced his Zurich citizenship, sold Alt-Landenberg Castle, and settled in Brugg.
The Murder at the BLUME. in Baden
In December 1526, Gotthard II travelled to Baden for a restorative stay. On 11 December, he was found murdered at the BLUME. Several theories attempt to explain the crime:
1. The Innkeeper’s Jealousy: According to oral tradition, Gotthard II had been too forward in his advances towards the innkeeper’s wife, which may have led to jealousy – and ultimately, to his death.
2. Theft of Valuables: Court records mention that Gotthard II had given various gifts to “all manner of suspicious young women” who frequented the BLUME. These valuables later disappeared, and his belongings were confiscated. Speculation suggests he was attempting to spend his fortune before it was lost.
3. Inheritance Dispute: Another theory suggests an inheritance conflict. Gotthard II’s mother, Anna Muntprat von Spiegelberg, had been married to Reinhart von Malrein, the former owner of the BLUME. After Reinhart’s death, his wife, Küngold von Spiegelberg, bequeathed her entire estate to her foster son, Johann von Roll. The question remains – did Gotthard II have a rightful claim to part of the BLUME.?
Conclusion
Despite numerous theories, the murder of Gotthard II von Breiten-Landenberg remains an unsolved mystery. The exact circumstances and motive for the crime are still shrouded in darkness – a true 16th-century crime story, proving that some secrets remain buried in time. Perhaps Jakob Seeholzer simply served the wrong piece of cake? We will never know …
