This study consists of two parts: the first part summarizes the development and operation of the city leadership in the period between the acquisition of the borough title (1361) and the free royal city status (1693). Based on the charters given to the city, it shows how Debrecen developed a high degree autonomy by the end of the 17th century. The second part presents the foundation of the ancient town hall, the „domus senatoria” consisting of several civic houses where the magistrate directed the city life with absolute power. Both parts of the study were written based on original archival data.