Rothenburg ob der - Overnight stop Official Website: http://www.tourismus.rothenburg.de/index.php?id=490 Spending a day in Rothenburg is like stepping 400 years into the past. This time capsule of a village is packed with colorful half-timber homes, old world sights, cobblestone lanes, and surrounded by a Medieval City Wall. The sure beauty of Old Town is Rothenburg’s main attraction. When you mix in the Night Watchman tour, Christmas village and great shopping you have the makings for an unbelievable visit.

We highly suggest spending at least one night in Rothenburg as it feels truly magical in the evening after the tour buses have left. Our self-guided walking tour starts covers all the must see attractions with plenty of opportunities to get away from the mid-day crowds. Rothenburg is definitely a place to take your time, relax, and enjoy.

General Info: https://www.ricksteves.com/watch-read-listen/read/articles/germanys-fairytale-dream-town- rothenburg

https://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Germany/Bavaria/Rothenburg_ob_der_Tauber- 23630/Tourist_Traps-Rothenburg_ob_der_Tauber-TG-C-1.html

http://independenttravelcats.com/2013/11/29/guide-rothenburg-ob-der-tauber-planning- perfect-day-rothenburg-/

Walking Tour: http://www.bigboytravel.com/germany/rothenburg/free-walking-tour/

See

• The Market Square (Marktplatz) is the center of urban life in Rothenburg. The square is framed on the west by the Town Hall (Rathaus), on the north by the Councillors' Tavern (Ratstrinkstube) with its tourist information center, on the east by shops and cafés, and on the south by St. George's Fountain. • The 50 m (165 ft) 13th century Town Hall Tower (Rathausturm) at the center of the offers the best view of the area. It costs €2 (per adult) and takes 241 steps to get up. The tower does not have a foundation of its own: it rests on top of the gable of the Gothic building. The front part of the Town Hall, a building, was built in the 16th century. It is free of charge to enter the Town Hall (Rathaus). • The Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum (Kriminalmuseum), just south of Market Square, is full of examples of equipment and is not for the faint-hearted. • The Plönlein, a few blocks south of the Market Square, offers a charming medieval sight. Standing at the right point, you can see two towers: on the left, more or less straight ahead, is the Siebers Tower (Siebersturm) dating from 1385, and down on the right, from the Tauber valley, is the Kobolzell Gate (Kobolzeller Tor) dating from 1360. These two access roads form a small triangular square, which is Plönlein. The Plönlein is often referred to as one of the most photographed spots in Germany. • The Town Wall encircles the city, giving the Altstadt the shape of a head, with the nose - the Castle Garden - pointing west. The existing town wall was built in the 14th century, was partially damaged in World War II, and restored through gifts from donors from around the world (see plaques on the wall). The Wall is about 2.5 km (1.5 mi) long and covered, with several towers and entrances at the gates. One of the easiest points of access to get up to the sentry wall is just south of Siebers Tower (Siebersturm). The entry is free and offers a good vantage point to see the town. • St. Jakobskirche (Church of St. Jacob), Klostergasse 15, north of the Market Square, contains a masterpiece by the famous Würzburg sculptor (ca. 1460-1531). Do

• Two walking tours are offered. Both tours are in English, cost €6, and leave from Market Square. The tourist office tours are 90 min and run from April to October and December daily at 14:00. The 60 min Night Watchman's tour runs nightly mid-March to December at 20:00. • The do it yourself Town Wall tour. The best stretch of the wall to walk is from the massive 16th century Spitaltor (go through the Siebersturm to the southern tip of the Spitalgasse) to the Klingentor, completed around 1400, at the northern tip of the wall. This takes about a half-hour if you don't stop. Offers excellent views and photographic opportunities. • Rent a bike at Rad und Tat, Bensenstraße 17 (tel. +49 9861 87984) Buy

Chronos-Nostalgiebilder, Milchmarkt 4 (just by the Markus Tower), ☎ +49 9861 9189821. Funny Souvenirs. You can dress up in a Medival or Rococo Costume and pick up the Photo at once. edit

• Georg Schopf, Galgengasse 1-3. This shop sells both souvenirs from cuckoo clocks to drinking glasses and antiques such as paintings. edit • Kunstwerke Friese, Grüner Markt 7 (tel. +49 9861 7166). Cuckoo clocks, Hummel figurines, pewter beer steins, music boxes, dolls, and the usual suspects. • Käthe Wohlfahrt, Herrngasse 1, [2]. A somewhat touristy shop in three floors underground where one can buy Christmas decorations during the whole year. edit Eat

• If you plan to stay in Rothenburg for a few days, keep in mind that the restaurants cater to the daily bus tours. This means that you should try to get in to eat dinner by 20:00 - especially in the low season, because few places are open much later than 22:00. • zur Höll, Burggasse 8, [3]. Gasthaus in a 1100 year old building edit • Baumeisterhaus, Obere Schmiedgasse 3, just south of Marktplatz, housed in a Renaissance styled residence built in 1596 by the Master Builder. Main courses €12-€22.

• Louvre, Klingengasse 15. Main courses €25-€28; fixed-price menu €49-€85.

• Ratsstube, Marktplatz 6. A true tavern atmosphere. Main courses €10-€15. • Altfränkische Weinstube Am Klosterhof 7. On Wednesday nights at 20:00, the English Speakers' Club meets. All are welcome. Drink

• Unter den Linden, at Kurze Steige 7B (tel. +49 9861 5909). A cafe-bar at the Tauber river. Located in A-1 on the map above. It is quite the hike down and up, but the beer is nice and cold.

Walking Tour - 3.5 to 4 Miles total walking - 1.5 to 2 hours walking + stops (5 to 7 hours) https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Hotel+Rappen+Rothenburg+ob+der+Tauber/Rothenburg+Tourismus+Service/St.+Wolfgangskirche/Reichsstadtmuseum/Tower+Trail+:+11+Scenic+View+Of +Countryside/Reiterlesmarkt/Tauber+Bridge/49.3768805,10.1839896/Alt- Rothenburger+Handwerkerhaus/Hotel+Rappen+Rothenburg+ob+der+Tauber/@49.3730185,10.1776624,16z/data=!4m73!4m72!1m5!1m1!1s0x47988fa47e6b2db3:0xd161e489ac24f00b!2m2 !1d10.1856727!2d49.379771!1m5!1m1!1s0x0:0xb0689da57e57ecba!2m2!1d10.1790155!2d49.3774703!1m5!1m1!1s0x0:0xd45341593783bd27!2m2!1d10.1763593!2d49.3806004!1m5!1m1! 1s0x0:0x2f762454bfba8d1e!2m2!1d10.1762152!2d49.3783609!1m5!1m1!1s0x0:0xdacfec314adfaf48!2m2!1d10.1716893!2d49.3751884!1m5!1m1!1s0x0:0x14eb75a94376f35c!2m2!1d10.179 2751!2d49.3768724!1m15!1m1!1s0x0:0x239074f13fad6e6e!2m2!1d10.1763943!2d49.3727251!3m4!1m2!1d10.1811242!2d49.3704272!3s0x47988fae98b59b3f:0xb09d5dd6c802ca1e!3m4!1 m2!1d10.1790281!2d49.3723096!3s0x47988faed43c8c8d:0xe4d8d6f59cc62b56!1m0!1m10!1m1!1s0x0:0x2e819e46fbc46d27!2m2!1d10.1814101!2d49.3766035!3m4!1m2!1d10.183373!2d49 .3783578!3s0x47988fa443604b8d:0xfa8e6cbe24f7fbbe!1m5!1m1!1s0x47988fa47e6b2db3:0xd161e489ac24f00b!2m2!1d10.1856727!2d49.379771!3e2!4e1 Overview

Rothenburg’s list of best sights 1. Galgentor (Gallows Gate) Entrance to the Old Town. Just behind the Würzburger Tor was the area where the town’s gallows stood until the beginning of the 19th century, giving the tower its name. Five towers were added to the fortifications around 1600. Because of its specific geographical position, the fortifications were most susceptible to attack here, at the highest point in the old town. This is precisely where the Generals Tilly and Turenne succeeded in breaching the towns defenses during the Thirty Years’ War, in 1631 and 1645 respectively.

2. White Tower Part of the 12th-century walls, the 900-year-old White Tower is attached to the pink, half-timbered building that was the town’s Jewish Community Center from 1390 to 1520.

3. Ratstrinkstube (Councillor's Tavern / Tourist Information) The former tavern was previously the exclusive preserve of the great and good of the Town Council. Now it welcomes all visitors to Rothenburg. Stop and absorb a little bit of Rothenburg’s venerable history: the clock on the facade of the building illustrates the legend from 1631 of the Der Meistertrunk, the Master Draught. The doors of the clock open every hour on the hour between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m and figures emerge from the astronomical clock and recreate the legend. At the behest of Count Tilly, Mayor Nusch drank 3 1/4 liters of Franconian wine in a single gulp, thus saving Rothenburg from destruction.

Look up at the gable of the Ratstrinkstube and you will be amazed: as well as the large town clock dating back to 1683 and the date display, you will also see a sun dial from 1768 and the famous city coat of arms!

4. Marktplatz (Market Square) This is the pulsating heart of the town. This is where it all happens, from the weekly market to guided tours, the historic shepherd’s dance, the fireworks as part of the town festival or performances by the Ambassadors of Music.

The steps of the Town Hall are also a popular place for locals and guests from all over the world to meet and stop for a rest. From here you can enjoy the view of the splendid patrician houses that frame the market square. Every hour on the hour between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. the clockwork figures on the clock above the Ratstrinkstube entertain the public with the key scene from the legend of the Master Draught.

According to the story, former Mayor Nusch saved the town from destruction at the hands of the troops of Imperial General Tilly by winning a wager by drinking 3 1/4 liters of Franconian wine in October 1631. What is known for certain is that the women of Rothenburg and their children assembled in the Market Square to beg Tilly to spare the town.

In 1632, the Market Square was once more the center of activity when the King of Sweden Gustav-Adolf stayed the night in Rothenburg with his army. The king himself stayed in the Town Hall.

The most horrific event in the town’s history was in June 1525, when Count Casimir von had 17 leaders of the recently defeated Peasants’ Revolt publicly beheaded in the Market Square. Their bodies had to be left on the square until evening, “so that the blood ran down Schmiedgasse like a stream”.

Things were more peaceful at a feast in 1474, when the Emperor Friedrich III enfeoffed Holstein to King Christian of Denmark. 5. Rathaus (The Town Hall) ThThe Town Hall with its splendid renaissance facade dominates the Market Square. Local master-builder Leonhard Weidmann designed and built this most imposing example of renaissance architecture north of the Alps between 1572 and 1578.

This was the site of a double-fronted gothic building dating from 1250, which can still be seen on one of the panels by the painter Friedrich Herlin on the main altar of the Church of St. Jacob.

While the eastern part of the building burned to the ground in 1501, the western part with the barrow bell tower has survived intact to the present day.

The strictly horizontal lines of the windows and cornices are only interrupted by the simple tower and the tall corner oriel.

The baroque-style arcade was added in 1681. The arms of the seven Electoral Princes decorate the arches.

6. Rathausturm (Town Hall Tower) The Tower is simply set on top of the gothic part of the Town Hall. Treat yourself to a fabulous panoramic view of the medieval town and its environs from the viewing platform. Even on dull days, you can admire the picturesque Tauber Valley and its beautiful mills from here. The 52-meter viewing platform is accessed via 220 steps from the main door of the Town Hall.

Opening times April - October: daily 9.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m. and 1.00 - 5.00 p.m.

7. St Jakobskirche (St James’ Church) The narrow lancet windows and tall spires of the Church of St. James' seem to reach towards the heavens. The most important church in Rothenburg still dominates the town’s skyline to this day.

As an alternative to the classic guided tour, you can also explore the St James' Church with an audio guide. Wander among the church’s imposing gothic arches or let yourself be transported by the opulent sound of the Rieger organ as part of a church concert.

The people of the town have donated valuable art treasures and an impressive array of art works since the building was completed in 1485. These artifacts telling witness to the great importance of this place of worship for both the townspeople and pilgrims, past and present: people from all over the world still make their way here to the Church of St James' as an act of pilgrimage.

The top attraction at Saint Jacob’s is the wooden Altar of the Holy Blood, also called the Franciscan Altar, which sits upstairs on the West side of the church. Carved by Tilman Riemenschneider from 1499-1505, the alter is considered one of the master artist’s best works. The center panel of the altar shows a scene from the Last Supper, while the panel on the left shows Jesus entering Jerusalem, and the panel of the right side shows Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. Above the 3 panels is the Relic of the Holy Blood which is crystal said to hold a drop of Jesus’s blood that was set into a wooden cross in 1270. The entire Altar of the Holy Blood was originally housed in the Franciscan Church, Rothenburg’s oldest church, before being moved here. Riemschneider was a Würzburg based artists considered one of the best wood carvers of his day. One of the artist’s other works from 1490 called the Altar of Louis de Toulose also resided in Saint Jacob’s Church. On the North side of the Church is an altar carved by of one of Riemenschneider’s in 1520 which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Virgin Mary Altar was first housed at the Holy Ghost Chapel in the Infirmary Quarter before being moved to Saint Jacob’s Church.

Carved by Swabian master artists in 1446, the High Altar on the East side of Saint Jacob’s Church is dedicated to the Twelve Apostles. The central panel shows 6 Saints under a crucified Jesus who is surrounded by 4 angels in incredible detail. The scene and side panels were brilliantly painted by Friedrich Herlin and the carving on the back of the alter is the oldest known representation of Rothenburg. On the left side of the High Altar is a beautifully carved stone panel with a wooden tabernacle where the Communion wine jug is stored outside of services. The stone panel was also painted by Friedrich Herlin in 1448 at the same time he worked on the High Altar. We love the huge Medieval stained glass windows above the High Altar which let amazing colored light in against the nave’s pale interior. The oldest stained glass window is the center one dating back to 1350 while other were finished about 40 years later. For the best light go early in the morning. Hidden nearby is Toppler’s Chapel which holds the gave of former Mayor Toppler who died in 1408. The stone panel in the chapel shows hands hold up dice because the name Toppler in German means a cubed game.

Opening times April to October: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

8. Klingentor (Klingen Gate) Over 30 meters tall, this tower has mainly served practical purposes since the 16th century: a copper vessel was installed and the tower was converted into a water tower, serving the town’s drinking fountains ever since.

One of the special features of the Klingentor gate is that it shares a wall with the Church of St. Wolfgang, forming a link between worldly and spiritual architecture that is quite unique. It was possible to climb the tower from inside the church, enabling the defenders to fire on the attackers who had already made it as far as the ramparts.

9. St. Wolfgangskirche (St Wolfgangs Church) Strongly fortified on the outside, yet with all the delicacy of the late gothic on the inside, the former fortress Church of St. Wolfgang is truly unique. It forms part of the fortifications of the town walls at the Klingentor tower, standing four-square and dotted with arrow slits. The nave has fine examples of late gothic tracery, as well as three altars dating from around 1500. This is also the time that the Church of St. Wolfgang was built, on the exact spot where shepherds had for many years sought protection for their herds from St. Wolfgang.

Did you know that sheep-farming and the wool trades were very important in medieval Rothenburg? The gatehouse of the church houses a small museum containing various interesting exhibits linked with sheep-farming.

Opening times April to September: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m www.schaefertanzrothenburg.de 10. Feuerleinserker (Feuerleins Oriel) „Du findest für den Leib das Brot in diesem Haus. Das Brot für deine Seele teilt Gottes Wort dir aus“

(For food for the body, eat the bread from this house, but for food for the Soul God’s word is the choice.)

This inscription decorates the picturesque oriel on the corner of Klingengasse, which is a favorite motive for photographers all year round. If you turn right in front of the 17th century oriel, you will find yourself at the Imperial Town Museum. 11. Reichsstadtmuseum (Imperial Town Museum) Experience the Rothenburg of past centuries up close and personal! The beautiful and tranquil Imperial Town Museum presents an impressive array of historical and cultural artifacts.

Since 1936, the museum has been housed in the former Dominican convent, which was dissolved in 1544. How did the nuns live here? Historical living quarters and, in particular, the well-preserved 13th century convent kitchen offers an arresting insight into their everyday lives. The convent kitchen is the oldest of its kind known today. The pride of place in the museum goes to the panels of the Rothenburg Passion, created in 1494 by Martinus Schwarz. A tour of the museum will also take in the internationally renowned Baumann Foundation. This traces the history of weaponry in Europe from the Stone Age to the 19th Century and includes high- quality weapons, faience ware, tin, models and locks. Among the highlights of the collection are hunting guns used by Marie Antoinette and Fredrick the Great.

The Judaica Department is particularly noteworthy. Artifacts from Rothenburg’s Jewish culture are presented here. The exhibition tells the story of Rothenburg’s heyday in the , which also marked the blossoming of Jewish culture, without shying away from the waves of dispossession and expulsion that began in the 13th century, eventually culminating in the Holocaust of the 20th century.

The top floor houses a picture gallery where visitors can immerse themselves in the atmospheric collection of painter Arthur Wasse.

Opening times April - October daily 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. www.reichsstadtmuseum.info 12. Klostergarten (The Convent Gardens) The Rothenburg Convent Gardens are attached to the former Dominican Convent, now the home of the Rothenburg Imperial Town Museum. Surrounded by the old walls, it still retains the typical structures of a convent garden; clarity, harmony and tranquility are still to be enjoyed here.

It is likely that Rothenburg’s Dominican sisters would have cultivated a herb garden, following in the traditions of Hildegard von Bingen. The herb bed is still maintained and tended to this day, presenting around 50 different herbs, each of them labeled by name.

The Convent Gardens are open daily from April to October from 8.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. 13. Burgtor (Castle Gate) The reason for building the Castle Gate was a natural disaster that befell Rothenburg: in 1356 an earthquake destroyed the fortifications. It was decided that a fortified tower should protect the town from attackers from the west. Anyone who wanted to leave Rothenburg by night at this time required the express permission of the Town Council. The so-called “Eye- of-the-Needle” was then opened, a narrow gap that could be used to leave the town. The alternative, opening the whole heavy gate, would have been far too risky in order to defend the town adequately. In times of danger, the opening above the gate itself could be used to pour boiling pitch on the attackers.

These days, the Burgtor forms the entrance to the Castle Gardens, a small beautifully planted park. The benches along the paths invite visitors to stop a while and soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors also take the time to absorb the fascinating view of the town’s unique skyline and the Tauber Valley.

14. Burggarten (Castle Garden) The name is actually misleading because 12th century castles did not have gardens. The correct name should really be “the gardens in the place of the castle”. This is the site where the royal family of established its imperial castle in 1142. King Conrad III reigned over his kingdom from here, but was the only ruler who actually used Rothenburg Castle. As his sons died relatively early, the castle quickly lost its importance, but not before it had formed the seed for the germination of the town.

Starting from the castle, the settlement spread over the hill, until it had become one of the ten largest towns in the by the year 1400, with a population of over 6,000. An earthquake destroyed the castle complex in 1356 and the stones of the ruins – a valuable commodity at the time – were used to build the city walls. Only the Chapel of St. Blaise was renovated after the quake. However this building was not originally a chapel, but rather the “Upper Ducal House”, probably the conference building where the king received his guests. The building was dedicated as a chapel after the renovation and now serves as a memorial to the fallen of the two World Wars. The Chapel of St. Blaise is also the site of the memorial to the pogrom of 1298, the original of which is in the Imperial Town Museum.

After entering the Castle Gardens, the visitor will be drawn to the wonderful view of the southern part of the town and the Tauber Valley to the left, as well as the Double Bridge and the Kobolzeller Church.

Another interesting feature of the Castle Gardens are the geometric flower beds from the 17th/18th century with eight sandstone figures representing the four seasons and the four elements.

If you look into the valley having passed through the gardens, you will see a bright blue tower, known as the Topplerschlösschen, the House of Mayor Toppler. Built in 1388, it was built by the powerful Mayor Toppler for his own pleasure. Previously surrounded by water, the castle is where he met with dignitaries such as King Wenzel. There is also a memorial to Toppler in the Castle Gardens. Since September 2010, the park is also adorned with a column in memory of the royal house of the Hohenstaufen dynasty.

As you leave the Castle Gardens and enter Herrngasse, you will see a mask on the wall of the Burgtor gate, which was used to pour hot pitch onto attackers. Inside the gate is a small door, known as the Eye of the Needle, which only afforded enough room for one person to pass through.

15. Topplerschlößchen (Toppler Castle) Built in 1388 partly as a residence and partly as a fortress, this was the home of Rothenburg’s legendary mayor, Heinrich Toppler. Fully intact, the building is furnished with items from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Located in the Tauber Valley and accessed via the Double Bridge or Barbarossa Bridge, just about 30 minutes’ walk from the Castle Gardens.

Opening times Friday to Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

16. Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan Church) The Franciscan Church, which is also dedicated to St. Mary, is one of the oldest basilicas in Rothenburg, dating back to 1309. The excellent acoustics and atmospheric surroundings provide the perfect place to linger a while and allow your body and soul to find peace and quiet.

While you rest, you will find your eyes sweeping around the simply decorated church. Particularly noteworthy, besides the modern glass windows by artist Johannes Schreiter, is the wooden rood screen that separated the monks from the laity. The impressive representation of the Way of the Cross dates back to the same period as the building of the church.

Opening times

Daily: 10:00 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m

17. Staudtsche Haus mit Innenhof (The Staudt House and Courtyard) This splendid property on Herrngasse, which used to be the town’s finest street, is the oldest unaltered patrician house in Rothenburg.

It was built in the 12th century and has been in the possession of the Staudt family since 1644.

Behind the simple facade on the street side is a large open area, which is protected by walls on all sides and which is not accessible to the public. Here the splendor of the lifestyle enjoyed by the former upper classes is unmistakable. The Habsburg imperial colors, black and yellow, are to be found everywhere, commemorating the fact that it was the Habsburgs who raised the Staudt family to the nobility.

This is also the location of the stables, the workshops and servants quarters, as well as the idyllic garden with Europe’s tallest yew hedge. This was planted in 1678. The original kitchen is a jewel in itself.

The Staudt House is an impressive witness to where the real power lay in a medieval town and offers an interesting insight into the everyday life of the inhabitants at the time.

Outside the home, make sure to check out the wide door which is big enough for a carriage to fit through. We also love the old chain door bells hanging out front with 4 different chains to ring different parts of the home. The baroque window bars are from the year 1772. You can get a glimpse of courtyard life at the neighboring Kleines Cafe which is part of the Herrnschlösschen Hotel Restaurant Garden. 18. Herrnbrunnen (Lord Alley Fountain) Right in the middle of the street was the old cattle market which is marked by the Lord Alley Fountain (Herrnbrunnen). Added in 1595, the fountain’s column got a Renaissance makeover with a merman that has two fish tails, a golden crown on his head, and golden scepter in his hand. The base of the column has blonde pig-tailed maiden spitting the water back into the fountain.

19. Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum (German Christmas Museum) Only one of its kind in Germany or Europe. A visit to the Christmas Museum will put you in the festive mood – even if it isn’t even Advent! The doors of the museum are open all year round. This is where the Christmas festival enjoyed by our grandparents and great grandparents is recreated.

Experience the entire historic spectrum of the traditional family festival and gain a visual impression of how Christmas decorations have evolved over the years.

Enjoy a “heavenly” atmosphere of enchanting Christmas tree decorations, cribs, Christmas pyramids from the workshops of the Erzgebirge, figurines and candleholders, incense burners and lots lots more. The 150 historical Father Christmas figures are something particularly special and will make every eye shine brightly, not just the children’s!

Opening times 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m http://www.weihnachtsmuseum.de/en/

20. Historiengewölbe mit Staatsverlies - Museum zur Stadtgeschichte (History Museum with Town Dungeon) Dive back in time to the days when the infamous Thirty Years’ War was waged in and around Rothenburg. Life-size figures are used to illustrate scenes as they might have happened at this time.

The 16th and 17th century exhibits in the historical vaults are an impressive reminder of much suffering and little joy. The eight vaults contain various recreations, such as a medieval writing room or a guard room (from around 1631). A staircase leads to the jail, which was also used as a torture chamber. Rothenburg’s most famous mayor, Heinrich Toppler, was once incarcerated here and died here in 1408.

21. Mayor Jagstheimer’s House (Jagstheimerhaus): As one of the most beautiful historic homes you’ll see in Europe, this huge half-timber mansion was built in 1448 by the Mayor Jagstheimer. One of the coolest features is the detailed 2nd story bay window sticking out of the corner of the mansion. In 1531, Emperor Maximilian I stayed here, and famous Mayor Nusch also lived here for a while. The 1st floor of the building has been home to the Marian Pharmacy (Marienapotheke) since 1812. 22. The Marienapotheke (St. Mary's Pharmacy) Is a genuine apothecary’s shop. It has been catering to the health needs of Rothenburg’s local population and its visitors since 1812. The real name of the building is the “Jagstheimerhaus”: Mayor Jagstheimer had the house built in 1448, right next to the Meat and Dance House. Since then it has entertained many prominent visitors. The most famous of these was the Emperor Maximilian I, however legendary Mayor Nusch also lived in this beautiful patrician house with its splendid facade.

23. St. Georgsbrunnen (St.George’s Spring in Reiterlesmarkt) The largest spring in the city is 25 feet deep, holds 25,000 gallons. The decoration on the pillar is from the late Renaissance period (1608).

24. Fleisch- und Tanzhaus (Meat and Dance House) You will find an interesting contrast to the architectural character of the narrow patrician houses behind the St. George Fountain. Here you will see the half-timbered gable of the “Meat and Dance House” rise steeply into the sky. Could the building owe its unusual shape to the fact that it was built on the foundations of the old town hall, which was completely burned down in 1240.

In the old days, the vaulted rooms on the top floor were a place for dancing and celebrations, while butchers sold their wares down below. In the top floor the colourful costumes for the historical reenactments are stored. If you are interested in the work of Rothenburg-based artists, the basement is just the place for you. Here you will find the exhibition space run by the members of the Rothenburger Künstlerbund e.V. art collective.

25. Baumeisterhaus (Master-Builder's House) Welcome to the “loveliest renaissance house in Rothenburg” in Obere Schmiedgasse! This is where the famous Rothenburg master-builder and stonemason, Leonard Weidmann lived and worked. As well as his own house, he also built the Spitalbastei and the Hegereiter House. The charming patrician house is now used as a café and restaurant where you can enjoy some culinary treats!

If you don’t have much time: admire the depiction on the renaissance facade of the seven virtues: Kindheartedness, Motherliness, Gentleness, Temperance, Courage, Justice and Wisdom, as well as the seven deadly sins: Gluttony, Deception, Falsehood, Greed, Lust, Sloth and Vanity.

The originals can be seen in the Imperial Town Museum.

26. St. Johannis Kirche (St John's Church) The Church of St. John is one of the few Roman Catholic churches in the mainly protestant city of Rothenburg. The church was originally built on the site of the Headquarters of the Order of St. John around 1200.

In around 1400, the church was completely remodeled in the late gothic style, giving it its current appearance. The west choir loft was added between 1600 and 1628 and the upper floor was extended to form the town’s largest grain store. The Steinmeyer organ dates from 1885 and was restored in 2004.

Another interesting point is that the church underwent several confessional changes over the years. It became Protestant in 1553 as a result of Luther’s reforms. In the Thirty Years’ War the church provided a burial ground for Catholic officers. In 1803, as part of the secularization of , it was transferred to the Catholic community as a pastoral center. 27. Johannisbrunnen The large fountain well next to the church is the biggest in town, able to hold over 25,000 gallons of water. It was built in 1608, remodeled in 1716, and is decorated with a beautiful column capped with Aquarius, the water bearing zodiac sign. Sitting right behind the fountain is a large stone fish pond that we find to be really cool, but is often overlooked. The tank was the holding pond was the perfect way to make sure they always had plenty of fish on hand at the monastery. The ponds were remodeled in 1856 and have held up great since then.

28. Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum (Medieval Crime and Justice Museum) Europe’s only museum of the law

A thousand years of legal history are brought to life in the Rothenburg's Museum of Medieval Crime, with the true horrors on show in the vaults. If you are of a bloodthirsty disposition, but still composed enough to take in the chilling details of jurisdiction, correction methods and the death penalty, then this is the perfect place for you. The impressive exhibits and detailed commentary offer an insight into the intricacies of the law that you won’t forget in a hurry.

Notorious criminal cases are recorded in woodcuts and copper etchings, while there is a whole department dedicated to witchcraft and witch-hunting in Bavaria.

Opening times: May to October: daily 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. www.kriminalmuseum.eu

29. Plönlein ("Little Square") & Siebers Tower One of the most famous postcard images from is definitely the Plönlein. A narrow half-timbered building with a small fountain in front, it is framed by the Kobolzeller tower and the higher Siebers Tower, with lovingly restored townhouses to the right and left, creating a charmingly picturesque effect.

The word “Plönlein” derives from the Latin “planum” meaning “flat square”.

Both gate towers were built as part of the first expansion of the town in 1204. The Kobolzeller Tower secured the entrance to the town from the Tauber Valley. Built from dressed quarry stones, the Siebers Tower protected the southern gate until the Infirmary Quarter was incorporated within the town fortifications in the 14th century

One of the world’s most popular photo opportunities is the Plönlein (Little Square), at the end of Schmiedgasse. Beyond, the Siebers Tower (dating back to 1385) was part of the “new” fortifications.

30. Kobolzeller Tor (Kobolzell Gate) It is said that in the old days you had to pass through a total of four gates before entering the town from the Tauber Valley. What is certain is that even then the gate was protected by the massive outer bailey. Follow in the footsteps of preceding generations and climb the "Alte Steige", a steep street leading up from the Tauber, and pass through the fortifications to the "Teufelskanzel" lookout. 31. Tauber Double Bridge Walk through the Kobolzeller Gate (1360) with its views of the Tauber Valley and the famous Double Bridge.

32. Kobolzell Kirche To the right (North) of the bridge is the Kobolzeller Church which dates back to the 14th century.

33. Spitaltor (Spital Gate) The inscription on the latest and strongest of all the bulwarks of the town’s fortifications “Pax intrantibus, salus exeuntibus” translates as "Peace to those who enter in, good health to those who leave again”. Built in the form of a figure eight at the end of the 16th century, these impressive fortifications were the work of Leonhard Weidmann. Seven gates, a portcullis, a drawbridge and a parapet that could be used by cannon protected Rothenburg from attack from the South.

We recommend that you should not only explore this witness to the strength of Rothenburg’s defenses from the outside, but also from the inside by walking the defensive walls. Families with children will be interested to know that there is an adventure playground in the dry moat next to the walls.

34. Spital Bastion One of the most impressive of the town’s fortifications, this 17th-century bastion has two inner courtyards, seven gates and an upper walkway. The Latin inscription over the gate says: “Peace to those who enter; Farewell to those who leave.”

35. Hegereiterhaus (Hegereiter House) This fancy building is hard to miss when you visit the former hospital area; located in courtyard with Reichsstadthalle. With its steep, canopied roof and narrow tower with its decorative lantern-style turret, it is a genuine eye-catcher in the middle of the infirmary yard. This used to be the site of the infirmary kitchen, while the manager of the various infirmary properties lived above. If you study the inscription next to the coat of arms on the building, you will see the mark of the famous Rothenburg stonemason Leonhard Weidmann. He also built the remarkable Spitalbastei fortification, just a few paces further on in the direction of the Spitaltor tower. 36. Reichsstadthalle (Imperial Town Congress Hall) Dating from 1699, this was where farmers delivered their tithes, or “taxes”. Renovated and reopened in 1975, this is now a conference and event venue.

37. Heilig Geist Kirche (Holy Ghost Church) The infirmary was built around 1280, originating in a foundation, and originally lay outside the smaller town wall ring. This is where the sick and poor were cared for, while also providing accommodation for travelers arriving after the town’s southern gate had closed.

The special treasure of this Protestant church is the tabernacle, dating from 1390. The naked Christ Child floats on a rainbow between heaven and the earthly world. Beneath is the Annunciation scene, showing Mary and the Angel Gabriel. This was originally where the altar wine and hosts were kept.

Art historians see stylistic similarities between the Madonna on the right side of the choir and the Madonna of Würzburg Cathedral. The bosses in the vaulted roof of the choir may also be from the same workshop.

If you want some peace and quiet and an opportunity to stop and pray, this charming church is the perfect setting. The inner courtyard is also worth a visit.

Opening times From dawn till dusk 38. Rossmühle (Horse Mill) The former horse-drawn mill was once vital to the survival of Rothenburg. In times of war or when water levels were low, the mills in the Tauber Valley were unable to provide sufficient supplies for Rothenburg. The massive mill was built in 1516 so that all the town’s grain needs could be met in times of emergency. Up to 16 horses powered the mill wheel. These days, the Rossmühle caters for the needs of visitors to Rothenburg: it has been converted to a modern youth hostel with an historical ambience. 39. City Wall Walk: With roughly 2.5 miles of medieval ramparts and 70 towers surrounding Rothenburg, a stroll on top of the 20 foot tall wall is one of the joys of any visit. Shorter walk from Ruckesser Tower to Röder Tower will at give you a taste. Working your way up the steps and into the covered walkway on top of the wall is magical. The ceiling only about 6 feet tall, and the path is single file, but you’ll really get the medieval feel. Slits in the wall provided lookouts and gave bowmen vantage points for incoming attacks. 40. Rödertor (Röder Gate) When you pass through the Rödertor Gate, your eye will first light on the two customs and watch huts with their pointed roofs. These flank the outer gate of the Rödertor Gate. The outer bailey stretches behind this. Attackers who had successfully reached the outer bailey could also be fended off from the side towers.

The main tower is the oldest part of the gate complex. It dates back to the 13th century, while the half-timbered upper level was added later.

Besides the tower of the town hall (Rathausturm), the Röder Tower is the only accessible tower in the Town of Rothenburg. Its name comes from the "curia rode" and it has always been an important signalling post tower.

Opening hours: March - November: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., weather permitting 41. Gerlachschmiede (The Old Forge) Between the Rödertor and Galgentor towers is one of the finest half-timbered houses in Rothenburg. It is a loving restoration of the original house, completely destroyed in 1945 by an air raid. Its highly decorative gable, pretty windows and colorful heraldic symbols were fully restored to their former glory in 1951. The coat of arms with the crowned serpent was created by the legendary blacksmith, Georg Gerlach himself. The forge closed in 1967, since when it has been in private ownership.

42. Markusturm (Marcus Tower) with Röderbogen (Röder Arch) The beautiful townhouses and the romantic Röderbrunnen fountain, together with the Röderbogen Arch and the massive hipped roof of the Markus Tower, form a wonderful ensemble that is one of the most popular subjects for photographers in Rothenburg. The Röderbogen Arch, with the slim clock tower and the sharply pointed roof, dates back to the 12th century and was part of the town’s first fortifications, later replaced by the outer ring wall.

43. Alt-Rothenburger Handwerkerhaus (Old Rothenburg Craftsmen’s House) Time seems to have passed by without a trace at the house at Stadtgraben No. 26. The house stands in the center of Rothenburg's old town and looks as if it has been conjured up straight from the Middle Ages. This historic protected building dates back to 1270 and has housed a variety of artisan businesses. Later the house was occupied by a hermit, who was against to technical and cultural innovation. It is thanks to him that this medieval jewel has survived to show us how artisans lived and worked. From the ground floor to the attic, every room is an impressive experience.

If we are looking for something else to see/do, these are not in the old city.

The Asia Water-Garden Erlbacher Straße 108, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

30 Minute - 1.5 miles walk or 10 minute drive from hotel.

A stroll through the 5,000 square meter landscaped oriental- inspired gardens will entice you to settle down in one of the numerous hidden quiet seating areas and to relax to the gentle babble of a nearby brook. A cup of coffee and a slice of cake from the garden’s café will cater for your physical needs. Up to 120 seats, most of them covered, are dotted around the garden, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and reflect. It is a real experience to walk these gravel paths and bridges, past streams and waterfalls on a journey of discovery.

Opening hours daily 10 am - 06 pm

St. Peter und Pauls Kirche, Detwang Detwang 30, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany Take a short walk in picturesque Detwang in the leafy Tauber Valley. About 30 minute walk (1 mile along river) from Rothenburg’s Castle Gardens you will find the Church of St. Peter and Paul. Driving is about 10 minutes - 2miles from hotel.

In the middle of the gothic arcade is the famous Holy Cross Altar, attributed to Tilman Riemenschneider and his workshop. The church’s thousand-year history is also witnessed by the painted flowers and leaves on the embrasures of the windows and the impressive cross relic, which dates from around 1050.

Opening times April to October: 8.30 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1.30 – 5.00 p.m.