Spend some time in this romantic walled town dating back to the Middle Ages on the Romantic Road in Germany. Its got ramparts, historic houses, tours, and museums.

With its splendid location on top of a hillside overlooking the surrounding countryside, the walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, on the German Romantic Road, is an absolute must for any visitor to this area of Germany. It's got everything: city walls, many historic houses, museums, and plenty of stories and legends.

Meistertrunk

One legend is of the Meistertrunk, about the Mayor of the town, who, in 1631, to soothe an invading army commander, drank nearly a gallon of wine without pause, to save the town. The huge mug he is supposed to have used is on display in the town museum.

End of Independence

During the Middles Ages, Rothenburg was one of Germany’s largest cities, with 6,00 inhabitants. Its independence ended in 1802, when it was incorporated into Bavaria. It later became a centre for artists and writers.

World War II and Reconstruction

Unfortunately the town suffered damage during World War II. On March 31st, 1945, the day before Easter, an allied bombardment destroyed some of the old town

In spite of years of poverty that followed, the residents of Rothenburg rebuilt their town according to the original medieval plans. You can see photos of the damage done, and, on your walk of the ramparts, you will notice plaques set at intervals in the stone – these are the names of the people who donated money to help with the reconstruction.

Walking the Walls

It takes about an hour to stroll along the 2.5-km length of the wall, stopping frequently to admire the view of the peaceful countryside on one side, and the medieval town on the other. A good time to do this is at sunrise or sunset, when the walls are deserted, the sky is stained with colour, and it's a photographer’s dream.

Photogenic Town

There's plenty to see and do in this most photogenic of towns. It's too small to get lost in, so just grab your camera and enjoy yourself. Wander along the cobbled streets and laneways, letting your imagination and inclination guide you.

Panorama

If you want to try something a little more strenuous than a gentle stroll through the streets, try climbing the 220 steps to the top of the town hall for a superb panorama of the town. In the basements is a prison, and illustrations of life during the Thirty Years War. There’s also a Medieval Crime and Punishment museum nearby – all exhibits are labelled in English.

Christmas World

Whatever time of year you visit, an absolute must is Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas World with its giant nutcracker outside the door. Inside, it's Christmas all year round. Associated museums are a German Christmas museum, and a Doll and Toy museum.

St. Jacob’s Church

Another "must see" is the Riemenschneider altarpiece, dating from 1466. It's found in St. Jacob’s church, and was carved by Tilman Riemenschneider, who has been described as the Michelangelo of German wood carvers. This altar is famous for its beauty and craftsmanship.

Food and Drink

In the summertime, beer gardens are outside the town walls. Here, surrounded by jovial Germans, you can enjoy a variety of typical German fare with plenty of beer to wash it down with, and listen to a band playing foot tapping music. Or you can opt for a cosy café or an elegant restaurant within the town.

Tours and Town

There are several guided tours available – including the unusual Rothenburg’s Nightwatchman’s Tour - and towns such as Munich, Augsburg and Regensburg.