Discover Interesting Museums in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
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If bad weather hits during your visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you might have fewer ways to enjoy its medieval charm, but there’s still plenty to do. You can explore sections of the old town wall, even in the rain. The real highlight on rainy days, though, is the town’s museums—they’re packed with unique experiences you won’t want to miss.
Similar to Rothenburg’s streets, its museums are like time machines, packed with amazing artifacts that range from charming and glamorous to downright spine-chilling. Let me tell you more!
Top pick:
Medieval Crime Museum
Step into the dark and mysterious world of the Middle Ages—don’t miss the Medieval Crime Museum, where history’s most unimaginable practices come to life!
Other great museums in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
This museum has a wide range of Christmas decorations! They’ve got everything from different types of Christmas trees, postcards, and nativity scenes to lights and candles.
You might think, “Oh, these are just decorations that anyone could make today.” But here’s the thing: the Christmas decorations at the German Christmas Museum are really special and have a lot of history behind them. Some of them are over a hundred years old, going back to the early 1800s.
Even if you’re not Christian, you can still learn a lot about Christmas history here. You can visit the German Christmas Museum on your own and check out all the decorations spread out over this 250 square meter exhibit.
They also offer guided tours if you want a more detailed look. The museum is conveniently located just west of Georgsbrunnen along Herrngrasse in Rothenburg’s Market Square.
Visitor information can be found on the German Christmas Museum’s official website.
Right across from the German Christmas Museum, you’ll find Rothenburg’s Historical Vault.
It is the museum that goes deeper into the city’s history, which you can also learn about at the Ratstrinkstube (the councilor’s drinking room) or the Tourist Information Center. The Historical Vault focuses on Rothenburg during the Thirty Years’ War, showing what life was like in the city during this time of religious conflict and division.
The Historical Vault, which has 12 dungeons, is the oldest prison in Rothenburg. Inside, you’ll see weapons, war gear, armor, and various tools that highlight the city’s military history. There are also torture devices, interesting items about General Tilly, and life-size statues dressed in medieval clothing that help tell the story of the Thirty Years’ War.
If you’re interested in visiting, you can find updated visitor information on the official website of the Historical Vault.
On the northern side of town, just a short walk from Rothenburg’s Market Square, you’ll find the Rothenburg Museum. This museum highlights the artistic side of Rothenburg with its exhibits. It features collections of paintings, sculptures, impressive weapons, and other items that cover the city’s 800-year history.
Art lovers will especially enjoy two stunning paintings that capture Rothenburg in the past: “Stadt im Rauch” (“Town in Smoke”) by Arthur Wasse and “The Bronnen Mill in the Tauber Valley” by Theodor Alt.
Please note that the schedule and entry fee may change without prior notice. Therefore, it’s recommended to check for updates from the official website of the Rothenburg Museum before your visit.
Explore Further
There’s so much more to see in Rothenburg ob der Tauber that I think you’ll love when you visit. One of the highlights is Plönlein, one of the most photographed spots in Germany. The town’s wall is another highlight—check out my article for a guide on walking along its perimeter.
For some unique discoveries, be sure to visit the churches of Rothenburg, or for time-transporting sights, the viewpoints of the town are great places to hang out. And if you’re still planning your trip, my tips will help you make the most of your visit to this charming town.
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