Both within Germany and internationally, the old town of Rothenburg is regarded as an urban planning model as well as the ideal of a romantic inner city. From the lavishly restored half-timbered houses to the winding alleys and the well-preserved town wall, everything here is reminiscent of times gone by. The splendid buildings show the former wealth of the town, which it acquired as a direct possession of the emperor. Even during the 30 Years’ War, the town fortunately remained largely undestroyed. Rothenburg is often called “Franconian Jerusalem” because of two parallels in urban development, namely the similarly long city wall and the historical importance of Jewish culture in the city.
