It is estimated that the "Haus zum Herzog" (House of the Duke) was built in the middle of the 16th century by the city councilman Hans Graf (died 1554).

The house belonged to the Cloister of St. Blasien between the years 1708 -1806. It then served various state, city and church offices until 1957. Since that time, the "House of the Duke" has been the home of the Freiburg City Archives.

Five steps lead to the house´s magnificent Renaissance entrance. The portal is bordered by a colorful and gilded gable which features the Abbey of St. Blasien`s coat of arms. The oak door was built in 1800. In the courtyard, a three-storied, spiral stair case is constructed with Late Gothic elements.

The "House of the Duke" is one of the few houses in Freiburg which was not destroyed in World War II. Because the house was spared, it is possible to see and admire the rich interior decoration and ceiling paintings from Johann Kaspar Brenzinger (1651 - 1737).