Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A Perfectly Preserved Medieval Town

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Encircled by a complete medieval wall, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the best-preserved historic towns in Germany and a highlight of the famous Romantic Road route.

History

Founded in the 13th century, Rothenburg flourished as a free imperial city during the Middle Ages. Its fortunes declined after the Thirty Years' War, which paradoxically preserved its medieval appearance, as the town lacked the wealth to modernize its buildings in later centuries.

What to See

• The town wall walk, offering views over red-tiled rooftops
• The Plönlein, a picturesque fork in the road often called Germany's most photographed spot
• St. Jakob's Church, home to a famous wood-carved altarpiece by Tilman Riemenschneider

Visiting Tips

The town is at its most magical in the early morning or evening, before and after day-trip crowds arrive. Visiting during the Christmas market season adds a festive, lantern-lit atmosphere.