A visit to the Old Bavarian town of Rothenburg is a delightful and enlightening excursion. Discover charming Rothenburg as you sail along the Rhine River on our Europe's Rivers & Castles itinerary.
Home of Fairytales
The town has inspired not only the village in the Disney classic Pinocchio but also centuries of other artists and filmmakers. The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Parts I and II) showcase the picturesque town as well.
Of course, its association with fairytales and fantasy isn’t entirely random. Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm grew up in a town not too far away and helped to popularize such classics as Snow White, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Rumpelstiltskin and Hansel and Gretel. Lederhosen, turrets, clock towers and thatched roofs just feel organic to these stories.
Step Back in Time
While time travel remains impossible, visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or the "Red Fortress above the Tauber," feels remarkably close. Stroll along the ancient city walls, once the town's primary defense, for panoramic views. The town is also a perfect place to find unique gifts, especially in the year-round Christmas shop and the delightful Christmas Museum. History buffs will appreciate touring a craftsman's house dating back to 1270, offering a glimpse into medieval life. With its well-preserved architecture and cobblestone streets, Rothenburg ob der Tauber truly embodies the essence of a bygone era.
A Marvel of Preservation
Rothenburg's appearance today remains remarkably similar to its Middle Ages heyday, which is a significant part of its charm. Considered the epitome of 'Old German' architectural style among medieval towns, it has long been celebrated as a quintessential example of traditional German culture. To maintain this historical beauty, preservation laws were enacted as early as the 1800s. These efforts proved so successful that during World War II, the town's fate took an unexpected turn. John J. McCloy, the American Assistant Secretary of War, familiar with Rothenburg's cultural significance, made the decision to spare the town from destruction. This act of preservation ensured that Rothenburg's medieval splendor, including its iconic half-timbered houses and well-preserved city walls, would continue to captivate visitors for generations to come.
A Glimpse of the Dark Ages
Life in medieval Rothenburg wasn't all fairytales and picturesque scenes. The Medieval Crime and Justice Museum offers a chilling glimpse into the darker aspects of life during the Middle Ages. This institution, housed in a 14th-century building, showcases an extensive collection of judicial artifacts, including instruments of torture and punishment. Another poignant reminder of Rothenburg's complex history is the replica of the Jewish cemetery. This memorial honors the once-thriving Jewish community that lived within the city walls until their expulsion in 1520. The original cemetery was destroyed in 1938 during the Nazi regime. Today, the replica serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, offering insight into the town's diverse past and the challenges faced by its Jewish inhabitants. These sites provide a more nuanced understanding of Rothenburg's history, balancing its fairytale charm with reminders of the hardships experienced in the region throughout history.
Visit Rothenburg during our included excursion from Würzburg during your 7-night Europe's Rivers & Castles itinerary.