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Rothenburg ob der Tauber
In the Middle Ages, Rothenburg was one of Germany's largest cities. Now, with its original cobblestone streets, well-preserved medieval city wall, and ancient structures, it is the most popular destination for tourists on the Romantic Road. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is so named because it sits above the Tauber river.
The known history of Rothenburg begins around the year 950. Rothenburg was dubbed an imperial city by King Rudolf of Habsburg in 1274, and this prompted the city to begin its growth.
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For a great view of the town, climb to the top of the highest tower in town - the Tower of the Town Hall (Rathausturm). To reach the 200 foot tall tower, enter the main entrance of the Town Hall on the market square (photo #3, tower partially showing at far left). Also, for great views of the city and the lovely Tauber Valley, walk the 1.5 mile long city wall.
To learn about the history of Rothenburg, visit the popular Museum of the Imperial City (Reichsstadt-Museum) - housed in the former Dominican convent. The museum is home to many facinating artifacts from the 14th century and later. Close to the market square are three other popular museums: the Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum, the Doll and Toy Museum, and the German Christmas Museum.
One of the most famous landmarks in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is St. Jakob's Church, built in 1336. The largest church in the city, the Church of St. Jakob is filled with many treasures of antiquity. Two altars were fashioned by the famous wood carver Tilman Riemenschneider, and the fabulous high altar was the creation of Friedrich Herlin. In addition, a 600-year-old stained glass window graces the east wall of the church.
Another interesting church in Rothenburg is St. Wolfgang's Church, also known as the Shepherds Church. Built between 1475 and 1492, the fortified church was built into the medieval wall at Klingentor. The church's high altar is from 1500.
Other churches include the Franciscan Church - the oldest church in the city, circa 1285, with an altar carved by Riemenschneider; and the Church of St. Peter and Paul, located in Detwang, an older village next to Rothenburg. This Romanesque church, originating around 968, have artifacts of great interest, such as the Crucifixion Altar - carved by Riemenschneider in 1510.
When you are ready for a lovely 30-minute stroll, walk through the Burggarten (castle garden) and take the path to the Toppler Castle (Topplerschlösschen), a tiny tower-like castle built in 1388 by the famous Lord Mayor Heinrich Toppler.
One of the most beautiful patrician houses in Rothenburg is the Master Builder's House (das Baumeisterhaus) - the home and studio of the famous stonemason Leonhard Weidmann. The richly ornamented and creatively-designed structure was built for Wiedmann in 1596 and gives us a glimpse of the architectural and artistic tastes of the wealthy during that period of history.
Rothenburg was a center of Jewish scholarship in medieval times, but pogroms ended the lives of many Jewish citizens in Rothenburg and other Franconian cities. The Jewish citizenry, however, remained in Rothenburg until persecution drove the last family out in 1520.
There are several Jewish sites in Rothenburg that have survived the centuries, including "Jewish Lane" - one of Germany's best preserved medieval Jewish quarters. The lane contains buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries. There is a Jewish museum, and the Dancing Hall, which was destroyed in World War II, but was faithfully reconstructed in 1953.
For other things to see in Rothenburg, visit their official website. Click English Version on the right sidebar.