"Stein am Rhein and it's frescoes" Top 5 Page for this destination Stein am Rhein by amsterdam_vallon

The Romans gave early affirmation of the strategic and commercial value of the location by building a settlement on the left bank of the Rhein. One day this place would be called Stein am Rhein, which literally, means "stone on the Rhein." Its fortunes have always been inexorably linked with location - where the Rhein courses from Lake of Constance (the Bodensee) toward the Rheinfall, about twelve miles downstream at Schaffhausen.

Vordere Krone

After taking the bridge over the Rhein, you will entering the old town. Around the Rathausplatz, you can see some 7-8 1500's historic buildings with painted facades.

These paintings, some biblical or historical in nature depict tales of wine, vineyards, crafts, festivals and a full range of human conditions. Themes vary from history or mythology, commerce or warfare to morality. Originally, the wealthy residents of these decidedly upscale dwellings had these frescoes applied as highly visible testimony to their affluence.

• Pros:Unbeliveable old square!
• Cons:1 000 000 tourists a year...