Year-round Santa Claus of Rothenburg

On the favorite holiday trail of the Germans, there is a unique, though small town. This is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where the medieval times are still not over and wine counts in gallons.

Europe is called the Old Continent for a reason. Many cities pride themselves on the wealth of monuments of the most beautiful periods in architecture. A great example is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a Bavarian pearl with an exceptionally large number of medieval monuments. In this respect, the city is a phenomenon on a global scale.

Rothenburg is situated on the River Tauber, approx. 30 km from the city of Ansbach. It is an ideal place for lovers of medieval architecture, because the monuments located here have been preserved in very good condition. When we add to it the unique atmosphere of cobbled streets and huts with steep roofs, we will create an image of a fairy-tale town where time has stopped long ago. Despite the bustle of practically every corner of Rothenburg, we will feel the breath of history.

The ideal of a German town

Rothenburg was not always as popular as it is today. It was made famous by the artists of the Romantic era, who caught on to its charm and considered it to be the closest to the ideal of a German town.

It is best to start your visit to the Bavarian tourist pearl from the center, which houses several Gothic churches with impressive towers. The eyes of the visitors will undoubtedly be caught by the exquisite Kirche St. Wolfgang (Church of St. Wolfgang, the patron saint of sheepdogs) or St. Jakobskirche (St. Jacob's Church) with a beautiful bas-relief depicting Christ and sleeping apostles.

Käthe Wohlfahrt - the world's largest Christmas store

Although it is further than closer to Christmas, their topic has been raised for a reason. Rothenburg is home to the world's largest Christmas store, Käthe Wohlfahrt, which is open all year round. Nothing stands in the way of visiting it even in the middle of holidays - who knows, maybe the sight of Santa Claus and the snow covering Christmas trees (no matter if artificial) will bring us relief from the summer scorching heat?

The power of family holidays can be most felt here in December, when the market is filled with colorful candy stalls. But there is something interesting going on here all year round - after all

Rothenburg was on the route of the most popular holiday route of the Germans. We are talking about the Romantic Route, stretching from the Alps to Würzburg am Main. Tourists visiting the city have many opportunities to learn about the local folklore. Fairs and festivals are very popular, with particular emphasis on Der Meistertrunk, i.e. City Rescue Festival, during which residents wear ancient costumes.

There is an interesting legend associated with the festival. During the Thirty Years' War, Rothenburg was seized by Count Tilly who planned to burn it down. When the city councilors gave him a gallon of wine, he announced that he would spare the city if there was someone to drink while the mechanical lark wailed from the clock tower. The mayor, who managed to drink the entire contents of the vessel (almost 4 liters), volunteered for this unusual challenge. The astonished count spared the city. It can be jokingly said that during the festival, which is held annually, many daredevils try to match the mayor, at least to a small extent.

Where to stay

In order to devote enough attention to the attractions of the town, it is best to spend at least one day there. Hence, look for a place to stay. One of the suggestions for tourists may be Camping Tauberromantik , located in the suburbs. An adult will pay € 5.50-6 per night on it, and a place for a motorhome will cost € 7.20-8 / day. You can come here with your dog (1.80 euro per night).

In Rothenburg, everyone will find something for themselves, not only a fan of the Middle Ages. After meeting history, visit one of the many restaurants and learn about the rich menu of Bavarian cuisine.