Medieval Bavaria: Exploring Central Towns

Bavaria is a region of Germany that is brimming with medieval towns and cities. From the famous Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, to the less touristy Marktbreit, there is a wealth of history and culture to explore in this region. With its romantic roads, cobblestoned streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque landscapes, it is a traveller's paradise.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The town is known for its impressive medieval architecture, including the well-preserved city walls, gates, and towers. The White Tower and the Markus Tower with the Röder Arch are two of the preserved towers. The town's centre is marked by the marketplace and St. James' Church. The town hall, with its attached Renaissance building, is another notable site. The rear Gothic part of the town hall dates back to 1250. The town is also home to several museums, including the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum, the Doll and Toy Museum, and the Christmas Museum.

Today, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a popular tourist destination, known for its charming cobblestone lanes, half-timbered buildings, and fairytale-like atmosphere. It is a stop on the Romantic Road through southern Germany, attracting thousands of visitors each year, especially during the summer and Christmas seasons. The town offers a variety of experiences, from exploring its historic sites and museums to enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding Tauber Valley.

Nuremberg

The city is known for its impressive medieval architecture, including the Imperial Castle, the old town, and the city walls with their many towers. The castle is a symbol of Nuremberg and has represented the power and importance of the Holy Roman Empire. It was a favourite stopping place for rulers on their journeys and was the site of court assemblies and Imperial Diets. The castle complex was built by the Hohenstaufens on a rocky elevation over the remains of older buildings.

In addition to its medieval attractions, Nuremberg is also known for its role during the Nazi era. The city was the site of huge Nazi Party conventions, known as the Nuremberg rallies, which took place from 1927 to 1938. The Nazi architecture from this period can still be seen in the city.

Medieval architecture

The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Central Bavaria is a carefully preserved fairy tale, with a rich history and well-maintained original buildings. The town is known for its red roofs, which translate to "Red Fortress Above the Tauber" river. It is one of the best examples of a medieval German village, with a long history that includes ramparts, sieges, poverty, Nazis, and redemption.

The town's medieval architecture is most evident in its old town, which is one of only four towns in Germany with completely intact city walls. The old town is a web of cobblestone lanes and classic half-timbered houses that lean together as if on a tipsy bar crawl. The town's medieval past is also evident in its fortifications, with walls and towers built in the 13th century, including the preserved "White Tower" and the Markus Tower with the Röder Arch. The old town is a popular destination for tourists, with its medieval city walls, the Criminal Museum, and the iconic Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Store & Christmas Museum.

The town's medieval architecture is also reflected in its churches and monasteries. St. James' Church, founded in 1170, is an example of the oldest fortification in the town, with an old cellar, an old moat, and a milk market. The German Order began the construction of St. James' Church, which has been used by the citizens since 1336. Another important church is St. Wolfgang's Church by the Klingentor gate, a fortified church that is part of the town's defensive system. The town also has a Dominican nunnery founded in 1258.

The town's medieval past is further reflected in its role as a pilgrimage site. The Heilig Blut (Holy Blood) attracted many pilgrims to Rothenburg, making it one of the 20 largest cities of the Holy Roman Empire. The town's importance as a pilgrimage site is also reflected in the construction of the Staufer Castle, which was built by King Konrad III in 1142. The castle was destroyed by an earthquake in 1356, with only the St. Blaise chapel remaining today.

The town's medieval architecture and history are also evident in its town hall, which served as the seat of government during the medieval ages and is a notable Renaissance building. The rear Gothic part of the building dates back to 1250, while the attached front Renaissance building was started in 1572. The town hall tower is one of the only two accessible towers in the town, with the other being the Roedertor tower.

In addition to its well-preserved medieval architecture, Rothenburg ob der Tauber also offers insights into the judicial punishments of the past through its Criminal Museum. The museum displays various instruments of torture, shrew's fiddles, scold's bridles, medieval legal texts, and guidance on witch trials.

Roman history

The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Central Bavaria is steeped in Roman history. Founded in 179 AD during the rule of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the town was established as a legion camp called Castra Regina, meaning "fortress by the river Regen", where it joins the Danube.

The Romans were not the first inhabitants of this region, as it was likely occupied by Celts before the first century CE. However, the Roman influence is undeniable, with the town serving as the first capital of Bavaria from the 6th to the 12th century. During this period, Regensburg was a bustling hub, hosting numerous dukes, kings, and bishops.

One of the most notable remnants of Roman history in Regensburg is the Roman City Gate, known as Porta Praetoria. This structure, along with the 12th-century Old Stone Bridge spanning the Danube with its 16 arches, stand as testaments to the town's rich medieval past.

Another fascinating aspect of Regensburg's Roman history is the preservation of ancient traditions. The Heilig Blut (Holy Blood) pilgrimage, for instance, attracted pilgrims from across the Holy Roman Empire, contributing to the town's cultural and religious significance.

The town also boasts an impressive collection of historic structures spanning two millennia. While some buildings were damaged during World War II, many have been meticulously restored, blending reconstructed facades with surviving medieval elements.

In addition to its Roman heritage, Rothenburg ob der Tauber also offers a glimpse into the Middle Ages with its well-preserved city walls, medieval architecture, and attractions such as the Criminal Museum, showcasing punishment and torture devices from the past.

Christmas markets

Bavaria is home to many medieval towns, including Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Dinkelsbühl. These towns are known for their well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming Christmas markets during the festive season.

Speaking of Christmas markets, here is a list of markets in Bavaria's medieval towns:

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The Reiterlesmarkt (horserider's market) in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a festive affair, with decorated medieval alleys, culinary delights, and white mulled wine. The market square, Kirchplatz square, and Grüner Market offer a range of treats and artisan products. The performances of the "Rothenburger Reiterle," a mythical figure from pre-Christian times, are a highlight. The Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Museum provides insights into Advent traditions and Christmas customs. Brass and church concerts, along with guided tours of the historic old town, further enhance the Christmas spirit.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt, located in the heart of the Old Town, captivates visitors with its festive atmosphere. The children's Christmas at Hans-Sachs-Platz square features a miniature railway and interactive stalls. The "Christkind," a traditional Christmas gift-bringer, visits every Tuesday to Friday at 2:30 pm, inviting children to ride the multi-storey carousel.

Treuchtlingen

The Christmas market in Treuchtlingen is set in the Stadtschloss, a former moated castle in Renaissance style. Visitors can enjoy a romantic and medieval market amidst historic buildings, along with regional specialties, handicrafts, mulled wine, and biscuits. After dark, the castle illuminates, creating a magical ambiance.

Coburg

Coburg's historic market square, nestled between the town hall and the old ducal chancellery, transforms into a festive wonderland. Traders decorate their stalls with fir greenery, twinkling lights, and Christmas figures. The Coburg bratwurst, grilled on dried pine cones, is a culinary highlight. The "Christkind" also makes an appearance here on Sundays, spreading cheer and handing out presents.

Würzburg

Würzburg's Christmas market stretches across several squares in the old town, offering a diverse range of stalls with treats, handmade gifts, arts, and crafts. Live music, choir performances, and other entertainment complement the festive atmosphere.

Dinkelsbühl

The medieval old town of Dinkelsbühl, with its winding alleys and numerous towers, hosts a romantic Christmas bazaar in the inner courtyard of the Heiliggeistspital. Visitors can explore a small city of stalls, showcasing arts, crafts, and exclusive handicrafts from the region. Unique items made of wood, clay, paper, fabric, and felt are available, making it a perfect spot for finding special gifts.

Regensburg

Regensburg, the former capital of Bavaria, welcomes visitors with four Christmas markets in the Old Town. Along the Ecumenical Nativity Trail, one can discover diverse representations of the Christmas story, from historical to contemporary interpretations. Cruise liners offer Advent cruises on the Danube, accompanied by the sounds of the Regensburger Domspatzen choir. The St. Emmeram Castle, ancestral home of the Thurn and Taxis family, provides a majestic backdrop for the festive celebrations.

Passau

Passau's Christmas market takes place in front of the stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral, filling the air with the scents of gingerbread, mulled wine, and fried sausages. Folk music, choral singing, and modern sounds like jazz create a lively atmosphere. Special concerts on the world's largest cathedral organ are held during the Christkindlmarkt, enhancing the festive cheer.

Iphofen

On the second Advent weekend, Iphofen, a renowned wine town, hosts a traditional Christmas market. Visitors can stroll through the decorated market square, explore the Rathauskeller (town hall inn), and indulge in Franconian mulled wine and sweet treats.

Füssen

Füssen's Christmas market is a small but enchanting affair, set in the festively decorated courtyard of the St. Mang Monastery. Choirs from the region and a magical illuminated setting make it a delightful experience.

Nördlingen

Nördlingen, a medieval-romantic town, shines with over seventy stalls, a children's carousel, and delicious treats during the Christmas season. An evening climb up the tower of Daniel, the Gothic St. George's Church, offers a panoramic view of the illuminated old town.

Lindau

The Lindauer Hafenweihnacht is a highlight on Lindau's calendar, with a Christmas market along the lakeside promenade and a stage programme from Thursday to Sunday. A hand puppet show delights children, while music, from modern to traditional alphorn and bagpipe melodies, fills the air.

These Christmas markets showcase the unique charm and festive spirit of Bavaria's medieval towns, offering a delightful experience for both locals and visitors alike.

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