Stil und Form Stil und Form - British Forces Germany

Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony (Grundsteinlegung)
It is a tradition in Germany to have a ceremonial "Grundsteinlegung" "Grundsteinleg ung" for all major
building projects. The ceremony is regarded as important and, in i n view of PUMA,
many BFG members are likely to receive invitation to such events. events .
The main element of a Grundsteinlegung is a copper capsule, which whic h is sealed and
bricked in during the ceremony. The capsule usually contains a certificate giving
details of the ceremony, a newspaper which appeared on the day, a collection of
coins in circulation on the day, details of the building and the owner or organisation
moving into the building. The ceremony involves a short address by the owner, the
architect, the builder, the reading out of the ceremonial certificate certif icate and the symbolic
laying of the sealed container by the owner. Drinks (Umtrunk) usually us ually follow the
ceremony on the site.
Dress. For military guests No 2 dress with Sam Brown/Cross Belt is appropriate. ap propriate.
Come prepared for cold and wet weather. Artisans sometimes wear traditional dress.
Topping out Ceremony (Richtfest)
Like the foundation stone lying, the "Richtfest" is also an important impo rtant ceremonial
element of a building process. This is a ceremony of some significance signi ficance and should
not be ignored by those who are invited. Roughly the same personalities perso nalities as in the
foundation stone laying ceremony are involved. The ceremony serves ser ves to enable the
owner to thank all participants for their efforts in getting the project completed.