A Walk Along Rothenburg’s Medieval Fortress Wall

The Rothenburg Wall Provides a Vantage Point From Which to See the Town:

It was wet and dreary when we arrived in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but luckily for us, surrounding this medieval town is a fortress wall with a covered walkway. Rothenburg was a fortified city and its very well preserved 14th century city wall surrounds the historic Alstadt (Old Town).

Rothenburg Wall

One of the recommended activities on any trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to take a stroll along the fortress wall and this was where we started our town visit as it sheltered us from the rain. Even if it weren’t raining, the wall walk offers a good vantage point from which to see the town.

As we walked along the wall, we saw a range of architectural designs and styles of Rothenburg homes and buildings along the fringe of the city wall. From the wall we got glimpses into the backyards and beautiful gardens of some Rothenburg homes, something you wouldn’t normally see unless you got invited into the homes. From the height of the wall we also got to see the lanes and alleyways that wend and weave between the buildings and which are not fully visible at ground level.

If you know what you’re looking at, there are some famous and attractive structures amongst the half-timbered buildings, such as the “Old Forge“. At regular intervals, you’ll also come across the many watch towers (turm) and gateways (tors) into the city. One of the towers, the Roderturm, is open to the public.

Rothenburg Wall Preservation

Rothenburg’s medieval wall was partially damaged in World War II and while you’re busy enjoying the sights of the Old Town, don’t forget to also take a look at some of the plaques along the wall. They record the names of persons and organizations who have made donations for the preservation of Rothenburg’s town wall, some of which are quite substantial.

Although the wall is 3.5 km (2.15 miles) in circumference, you don’t have to walk the entire distance if you don’t wish to. There are several exit points along the wall from which you can step off and walk into the town centre.

It’s easy to spend a couple of hours ambling on the wall and if you have limited time in Rothenburg, keep watch of your time as there is much to see in the Old Town centre as well.

See more photos of Rothenburg wall at Travelsignposts Rothenburg Wall Walk gallery.

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