Places to See in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
The photos in the gallery below of the sights in Rothenburg are arranged in rows of four, each of which can be seen by clicking the coloured numbers. To see a larger version of a sight and the associated description and history, click on the relevant thumbnail.
The Rothenburg central market square (or Marktplatz) showing the City Councillors' Tavern (Ratsherrntrinkstube) and neighbouring merchants' buildings. This was the location for events, meetings, markets and executions in the Middle Ages - these days it is a little bit more sedate and is thronged with busloads of tourists awaiting the hourly chimes and the animated figures on either side of the clock who reenact the famous Meistertrunk from Rothenburg's (alleged) past.
The White Tower (Weisser Turm) is the second city gate that visitors will arrive under when approaching from the east. These are part of the original city walls and this area was formerly the location of the Jewish quarter in the Middle Ages.
A view showing the side of the Town Hall and the tower (which is is possible to climb on most days during the summer). The fountain is the Georgsbrunnen - the location for the executions and for a traditional dance by shepherds to help ward off the plague from the town. The timbered building to the left is the Jagstheim House, built in the 15th century.
Rothenburg from the outside looking towards the Burgtor. Although there is no castle (the fortifications were destroyed by earthquake in the 14th century) this gate was named after the former location and was one of the most important points of entry into the town. Those participating in the "Nightwatchman's Tour" come out this way and the tour explains such features as the small gate in the larger one (which allowed individuals to be let in without opening the whole door) and the defensive features.
This is a view to the southern end of Rothenburg from the Castle Gardens. It gives an idea of the towers and walls rising above the countryside.
An example of the quieter side streets of Rothenburg. Like the equally-popular Venice, one of the best things to do in high season is try to avoid the crowds in the side streets and alleyways to still soak up what remains of the medieval atmosphere.
The Klingen Gate, built in the 13th century - the tower was converted to use as a water reservoir in the 16th century.
This church is also known as the Shepherd's Church, because it is said to be where shepherds prayed to St Wolfgang for protection against wolves. It is a fortress church built to help protect the neighbouring Klingen Gate as part of the external defences of the town.
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