The city experienced an enormous upswing in the 17th century. During this time Wetzlar became the seat of the Imperial Chamber Court of the Holy Roman Empire. Almost all the fascinating half-timbered houses and picturesque lanes in the Old Town were built during this period. Among the lawyers was also the young advocate Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The image of the historical centre of Wetzlar is distinguished by the 700-year-old stone bridge over the Lahn River and the exquisite cathedral with its stylistic diversity.