Rothenburg ob der Tauber: a true sample of the Middle Ages in Germany and the star of the Romantic Road!

The walls, the river, the towers, the traditions, and the beautiful half-timbered houses make the city the star of the Romantic Road, one of the most famous and enchanting routes in Germany! With our private guided tours, you will have the opportunity to discover all the wonders of Rothenburg ob der Tauber with oficial guides

What does the name Rothenburg ob der Tauber mean?

The name was given after the construction of a castle in the 10th century. Rothenburg (rot = red and burg = castle), while ob means “above” and Tauber refers to the river in the region. Therefore, it is the “red fortress above the Tauber river”.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber was a Free Imperial City!

In 1274, Rothenburg ob der Tauber was elevated to the status of a Free Imperial City by King Rudolf I of Habsburg. This meant that the city was subject only to the authority of the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, enjoying significant political and economic autonomy. During this period, Rothenburg flourished as a commercial and cultural center, becoming one of the most prosperous cities in the region. The city expanded its territory and strengthened its defenses, including the construction of its famous walls and towers.

The wall and its towers

During the Middle Ages, it was very common to build defensive walls around cities to repel potential attacks, especially in more prosperous cities. And in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, it was no different. Its walls date back to the 14th century, as do some of its buildings, which are very well preserved. It is possible to visit some parts of the wall.

With the rapid expansion of the city, it became necessary, 30 years after the completion of the old wall, to erect a new wall covering an even larger area than the first.

It is possible to take a tour along the wall and its towers; from the original 70, only 42 remain today, with the Röderturm tower standing out, which, with its excellent viewpoint, is the only true observation tower along the wall of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Old Town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Another stop that must be made when visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a visit to the historic center. To explore it, you must pass through the two iconic towers: Markusturm and Weisser Turm, which formed the entrance gateway of the city’s first fortification. In parts of the historic center, vehicles are mostly not allowed.

Meistertrunk Festival – Historical festival in Rothenburg

A historical festival that recalls an event which occurred during the Thirty Years’ War, rather unusual. The “master’s gulp” festival takes place every year on the Pentecost weekend. In it, a theatrical play is presented depicting the moment when the city, which was Protestant, was occupied by General Tilly’s Catholic troops, threatened with looting, but was saved by the city’s mayor, Nusch, in an unexpected way.

The question is: how did this happen? Nusch was challenged by the enemy general and managed to down 3.25 liters of wine at once, impressing General Tilly, who spared the city.

Rothenburg: A Christmas Town

Considered the Christmas capital of Germany, the city boasts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets with a 500-year tradition, and also has 6 branches of the renowned store Käthe Wohlfahrt, a reference in this segment, making it one of the major highlights of the city.

Furthermore, there is the city’s Christmas museum, which shows how Christmas began to be celebrated in the country and the customs of each region. There you will also find old ornaments and Christmas trees, as well as a huge nutcracker statue.

The castle garden of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Burggarten)

Many wonder where the castle is, to which “Rothenburg” (as seen at the beginning of the post, the red fortress) refers. The city’s castle no longer exists; Stauferburg was destroyed. However, the castle garden still remains and will certainly not disappoint you!

From this spot, you can enjoy a perfect view of the city. The garden features historic trees and also a part of the castle that was not destroyed. And it doesn’t stop there—the statues in the garden are also a major highlight; the combination of multicolored flowers and these statues is impressive!

The site, originating from where the magnificent Stauferburg once stood—destroyed, by an earthquake in 1356—is now marked by majestic linden and beech trees and beds of abundantly planted flowers. This rich vegetation paints the garden with a colorful and vibrant character, providing a space for relaxation and discovery.

The sandstone figures present in the garden are symbolic representations of the seasons and the four elements, serving as a special attraction for visitors. They enrich the environment with an artistic and cultural touch, reflecting the traditions and the rich history of the region. Furthermore, the fantastic view of the city and the Tauber Valley enhances the experience of strolling through this garden, making each walk a unique pleasure.

By exploring the Burggarten more deeply, visitors can see the only remaining building from the original Stauferburg, which now serves as a memorial. This building, along with the informational plaques scattered throughout the garden, offers valuable insights into the structure and function of the ancient fortress, connecting visitors with the medieval history of Rothenburg.

In addition to the rich history of the castle, the Burggarten also houses memorials that date back to dark times. A stele and a pogrom stone serve as potent reminders of the atrocities committed against the Jewish population in 1298, offering a moment of reflection on the importance of tolerance and peace.

A peculiar feature of the Rothenburger Burggarten is its Figurenbeet, a spot that attracts photographers with its unique composition of vibrant flora, murmuring fountains, and the distant walls and towers of the Spitalviertel forming a picturesque backdrop.

While traveling along the Romantic Road, visitors seeking an informative and enriching experience will find in the Rothenburg Burggarten a destination filled with history, natural beauty, and tranquility. Every corner of this garden speaks of ancient times, legends, and the realities of the region, providing a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the Romantic Road.

Church Unsere liebe Frau zu Kobolzel

In the alleys of historic Rothenburg, near the iconic Doppelbrücke, lies the Catholic church Unsere liebe Frau zu Kobolzell. Originating from the late 13th century, this church was renovated between 1472 and 1505, becoming a stop for pilgrims with its welcoming portals.

However, in 1525, during the Peasants’ War, the church was looted, with many of its images and statues of Mary being damaged. It went through a period of neglect, even being used as a dyehouse and farm. But between 1854 and 1860, it was carefully restored and once again became a landmark for the Catholic community. Today, it hosts Marian celebrations, weddings, and May devotions, standing out for its late Gothic architecture with a unique spiral staircase and pointed arch windows.

World War II in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

During World War II, Rothenburg suffered significant destruction, but an astute reconstruction plan in the 1950s and 1960s preserved the built fabric.

In the last month of World War II, Rothenburg was severely damaged. A bombing on March 31, 1945 resulted in a fire that destroyed 40% of the city. However, two weeks later, the city was surrendered to the American Forces without further destruction. John McCloy, who would later become President of the World Bank, played a crucial role in sparing Rothenburg from further attacks by asking General Devers to avoid additional damage to the city, thus respecting its historic monuments.
Of the approximately 950 buildings within the city walls that existed in 1885, 592 survived the war undamaged, and 52 were partially destroyed. The buildings constructed after 1945 were designed to integrate the preserved built fabric and are only recognizable as newer constructions upon closer inspection.

Rothenburg was already an important tourist destination in Germany before World War II. After the conflict, it became one of the highlights of the Romantic Road.

During the war, Wildbad, a part of the Rothenburg community and an old spa, was used as a hospital, orphanage, and school for the Hitler Youth. After the war, it served as a camp for Baltic refugees.

The history of Rothenburg in World War II is a testament to resilience and the dedication to preserving heritage. The city, with its medieval alleys and historic architecture, continues to be a living reminder of Germany’s 1000-year history, attracting visitors from around the world.

Experience in Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Beyond the guided tours

Wine Tasting: In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, our travelers have the unique opportunity to participate in wine tastings in a historic venue full of charm and tradition. In this experience, participants can explore the local landscape through the senses of taste and smell, all under the guidance of the cellar master. The tastings are both informative and fun, allowing visitors to discover more about the region’s rich winemaking tradition. Additionally, it is possible to enjoy a Vesper as part of the cellar tasting experience.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Malerisches Rothenburg: For those who love to dive into times gone by, we offer a picturesque journey through “Malerisches Rothenburg”. In this experience, our guides take you on a discovery trip to 19th-century Rothenburg. Enchanted corners and seemingly forgotten nooks await to be rediscovered.

This tour provides a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to explore Rothenburg through the eyes of the artists who depicted it, reliving the romantic atmosphere and the timeless beauty of one of the most enchanting cities in Germany.

Tips for lesser-known tours and museums in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

• Kriminalmuseum:
  • The Medieval Criminal Museum is the largest museum of jurisprudence in Europe. The exhibition, located in the former Johanniter monastery, is both chilling and highly informative, featuring torture instruments such as shame masks, stretching benches, thumb screws, and execution swords.
• Wildbad:
  • Wildbad, located in a large and dreamy landscaped park, was built in the late 19th century in a historicist style. Formerly a first-class spa hotel, today it is used by the Evangelical Church as a meeting and conference venue. The park features several art installations by renowned artists. Be sure to visit the beautiful Rococo hall and the theater hall.
• Rothenburger Mühlenweg:
  • This circular path initially heads south through the historic center to Rossmühle and Spitalhof, then descends into the Tauber and Schandtaubertal valleys. Up to Detwang, 15 mills are passed. The return path, passing by Bronnenmühle, takes you back to the city.
• Kost Kamm:
  • Located east of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the community of Windelsbach is home to the Kost Kamm manufacture. Here, combs, brushes, and wooden jewelry are crafted with artisanal perfection from carefully selected natural materials. Fruit woods and hardwoods from sustainable forestry are used. The company building, architecturally interesting, received recognition from the German Timber Construction Award in 2019.

Culinary traditions of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is known for its culinary traditions, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Franconia region. One of the highlights is the “Schneeball” (snowball), a sweet fried dough made from strips of pastry dough shaped into a ball and traditionally dusted with powdered sugar. The Schneeball is now available year-round in several bakeries in the city, with variations that include chocolate, cinnamon, and other innovations.

In addition to the Schneeball, the local cuisine is influenced by the traditions of Franconia and Hohenlohe, using local ingredients such as regional apples, green spelt (a type of grain harvested before full maturity), products from mills along the Tauber river, and meats from animals raised free in the local pastures. Dishes such as “Zwiebelkuchen” (onion tart) and game specialties like wild boar and venison are common in the region.

For gastronomy enthusiasts, the initiative “Genießen ob der Tauber” (Flavors of the Tauber) brings together local restaurateurs dedicated to promoting regional cuisine, offering menus that highlight traditional dishes paired with local wines.

Rothenburg: A Tourist Destination Packed with History in 11 Points

• 1. Origins and Development
  • Rothenburg ob der Tauber, situated about fifty meters above the Tauber river, evolved from a small castrum or oppidum into a prosperous civitas in the 12th century. In 1142, King Stauffer Conrad III erected a castle, the “roter Burg,” literally “red castle,” above the Tauber, giving the place its name. Supported by a nearby Wirtschaftshof and a small stone church, this settlement transformed into an active urban center with market privileges and a surrounding defensive wall.
• 2. Status and Politics
  • In 1274, Rothenburg received the status of Reichsstadt, or Free Imperial City, under the direct protection of the Holy Roman Emperor, becoming one of the sixty-five Free Imperial Cities around 1500. Rothenburg joined the powerful association of Swabian cities and municipalities known as the Schwäbische Städtebund in 1378, engaging in regional politics alongside cities such as Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Augsburg.
• 4. Population and Size
  • By medieval standards, Rothenburg was considerable in size, with a total population between 5,000 and 7,000 individuals, living in about seven hundred houses during the 14th and 15th centuries. It was one of the fifty largest cities in Germany by population.
• 5. Religious Institutions
  • Rothenburg had several resident religious institutions, including the commandery of the Teutonic Order, the Franciscan monastery, and the Dominican convent. The Teutonic Order played a critical role in the administration of the parish church and chapels in the city, with Rothenburg situated within the Diocese of Würzburg.
• 6. Artistic Environment
  • Rothenburg is an ideal place to study medieval artistic production due to the high survival rate of both its built fabric and its archival records. It offers historians the opportunity to reconstruct various artistic settings of different scales, providing insights into the interactions between multiple art forms.
• 7. Strategic Maneuvers
  • Rothenburg’s strategic maneuvers in regional and local politics succeeded in increasing the city’s prestige, autonomy, and territorial control until the end of the Middle Ages. It also provided the impetus and funding for many of the city’s architectural and artistic developments.
• 9. Tourism and Preservation
  • Today, Rothenburg is one of the main “medieval” tourist destinations in Europe. The excellent preservation of its artifacts and historic structures attests to the complex dynamics at work in the artistic development of the late Middle Ages, making it a valuable site for historical study and tourism.
• 11. Artistic Contributions
  • The artistic contributions of Rothenburg to the medieval scene are invaluable. The city, with its medieval alleys and historic architecture, continues to be a living reminder of Germany’s past, providing a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the Romantic Road.

This post was based on various sources, notably the study by Katherine Boivin, ‘Riemenschneider in Rothenburg: Sacred Space and Civic Identity in the Late Medieval City’.

Explore Rothenburg and the entire Romantic Road with Majestic Germany!

When visiting the charming Rothenburg ob der Tauber, be sure to explore all its corners and secrets with us! We specialize in providing unique and unforgettable experiences in Germany, with personalized services and oficial guides

Private Guided Tours: Discover the rich history and traditions of Rothenburg with our private guided tours. Our specialized guides will take you to the most emblematic tourist spots in the city, sharing fascinating stories and local trivia.

Personalized Experiences: Want to explore the Burggarten, delve into medieval criminal history, or walk along the Rothenburger Mühlenweg? We customize your experience to suit your interests and desires, ensuring a memorable trip.

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Hotel and Restaurant Reservations: Let us take care of your hotel and restaurant bookings, ensuring cozy accommodations and delicious dining experiences in picturesque Rothenburg.

Complete Trip Planning: From creating personalized itineraries to providing support throughout your journey, we are here to ensure that your visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is perfect and stress-free.

Get in touch with us and start planning your unforgettable adventure in Rothenburg ob der Tauber with Majestic Germany!

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