Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Medieval Magic -english-
Datum 24.11.2005 17:59 | Thema: Romantisches Franken
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Medieval Magic
There is a city in Germany where Christmas can be experienced all year long — Rothenburg ob der Tauber on the Romantic Road in Bavaria.
It is also host to one of the most celebrated Christmas markets in Germany. Known for its medieval setting, Rothenburg is a walled city that has been left largely untouched for hundreds of years. Some complain of the Disney-like feel of the city, whose unspoiled beauty fills the city’s cobblestone streets with visitors during the holidays.
But Rothenberg remains an unparalleled gem among German cities, a place where tourism, historic preservation, and modern life have found a happy medium.
Visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber is like stepping into a time warp. The town boasts some of the most impressive medieval architecture in Europe, and citizens fight tooth and nail to keep developers outside of the city walls.
Its medieval stage is home to the annual “Reiterlesmarkt,” the Christmas market named after a local Teutonic legend, which began during pre-Christian times as the story of a horrid rider who carried the souls of the dead. As Christianity swept through Europe, the figure developed from a wild man into a loving, gentle man who gave gifts to all people on earth.
While Christmas decorations can be bought all year long in Rothenburg, the holidays are a special time to view the city and the market in its illuminated splendor.
A local specialty that shouldn’t be missed is the "Schneeball" or snow ball, made from strips of sweet dough fried and covered with powdered sugar or chocolate.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is also home to the German Christmas Museum. and More info: Tourist Office, phone: ++49-9861-404-800, fax: ++49-9861-404-529, E-Mail: info@rothenburg.de
source: germany-info.org picture: Live Webcam from Rothenburg o.d.T.
