"Rothenburg by the River" Rothenburg ob der Tauber by marigurn

The former Free Imperial City of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the star attraction along Germany's Romantic Road. It's justifiably celebrated not only for its well-preserved medieval buildings and walls, but also for its unspoiled setting.

Just outside of the old city

The name "Rothenburg ob der Tauber" is actually a shortened version of "Rothenburg oberhalb der Tauber", which in German means "Rothenburg over the Tauber". This is so because the town is located on top of a mount overlooking the Tauber river. As to the name "Rothenburg", some say it comes from the German words "Rot" (Red) and "Burg" (burg, medieval fortified town), referring to the red colour of the roofs of the houses which overlook the river.

Near the Tavern

The Night Watchman gathers his followers in the Market Square in the heart of historic Rothenburg ob der Tauber, in front of the Councilor's Tavern.