Nuremberg: medieval trends and the modern rhythm of a German city

Nuremberg is widely associated with achievements in science and technology. Being home to Europe’s first printing press and a center for astronomical studies, these and other significant technological accomplishments are celebrated today in world-class museums and monuments.

Despite severe damage during World War II, many medieval buildings in the Old Town have been meticulously restored to their former glory. In fact, most of Nuremberg’s notable landmarks are situated within the historic city walls, which stretch approximately five kilometers around the Old Town, making it extremely fascinating to explore on foot.

From 1945-1949, Nuremberg became the venue for large-scale trials of Nazi war criminals, and in 2010, a memorial dedicated to this event was opened in the city.

Ancient Landmarks

Nuremberg Castle

Dominating the skyline of the northwestern part of the Old Town is the area of historic buildings that together make up the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg.

This impressive fortress, standing 351 meters high, dominates the Old Town’s skyline. One of the most important surviving medieval fortresses in all of Europe, it once served as the residence of all legitimate German kings and emperors from 1050 to 1571.

A great way for tourists to get the most out of visiting the castle is to join an engaging walking tour of Nuremberg’s Old Town. These informative two-hour tours also cover other important landmarks such as the city walls, the famous Hauptmarkt, the historic house of Albrecht Dürer, and the Church of St. Lawrence. The tours are typically conducted in German and English.

A unique feature of Nuremberg is that it has preserved much of its old city walls, many sections of which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries and were later fortified in the 16th and 17th centuries.

In fact, one of the best places to visit in Nuremberg for those who want to find their way around this fascinating medieval city is to walk along the nearly five-kilometer path that runs along the walls, leading you to numerous gates and towers.

Albrecht Dürer’s House

Located just a few steps from Nuremberg Castle. This five-story house dates back to 1420 and now serves as a museum, established in 1871 and dedicated to the life and work of the renowned German Renaissance artist Dürer.

In addition to numerous fine exhibits of some of his most famous works, the museum features authentic antique furniture and a reproduction of Dürer’s workshop, where you can enjoy demonstrations of traditional printing. Also of interest is the kitchen with its original fireplace and the living quarters that can be explored.

The Hauptmarkt

Considered one of Germany’s main tourist attractions, it has been the scene of the daily Wochenmarkt market for centuries, a tradition that continues to this day. It is also home to the Church of St. Giles, the only baroque-style church in the city.

The traditional city center, the Hauptmarkt, is home to the aptly named “Beautiful Fountain” of the 14th century. With its exquisite decorations and figures, it is an ideal spot for photography. While there, be sure to touch the famous golden ring of the fountain for good luck.

The Hauptmarkt is also where you will find the Old Town Hall, along with its much newer 20th-century counterpart. Built in 1616, the original municipal buildings are notable for their magnificent doors, dungeons, and even a torture chamber!

Transport Museum

Located near the old city walls is the wonderful Nuremberg Transport Museum. It consists of several departments, including a museum dedicated to Deutsche Bahn – the country’s railway, known as the DB Museum; and the Museum of Communication. It is especially interesting for children, who will be captivated by the numerous exhibits related to the country’s railway.

The main exhibits include numerous scale models, including a huge model railway that has been under construction for over 100 years, as well as a variety of fascinating interactive displays. This is one of the oldest such museums in Europe, dating back to 1899, and boasts a rich collection that also includes royal trains and perfectly restored steam and diesel engines. There is even a working replica of Germany’s very first train.

German National Museum

The museum houses the country’s largest collection of German art and culture. It features over 1.3 million items related to the region’s artistic and cultural history, including historical documents on parchment, a collection of 17,000 seals, and a superb archive of fine art.

Other highlights include a collection of 300,000 prints, drawings, and paintings representing all major schools of art. There is also an impressive collection of historical musical instruments, a sculpture collection, and a fascinating display of antique toys and dollhouses.

Nuremberg Toy Museum

Considered the leading museum of its kind in the world, it is an intriguing attraction for children of all ages, as well as for adults. It is housed in a historic old building dating back to 1517. The main sections include captivating details about the cultural significance of many unique toys exhibited from various countries and periods.

Many old toys, some dating back to the Middle Ages, were made in the city, which has been renowned for its dollmakers for centuries. Also noteworthy is the world’s largest collection of toys made by EP Lehmann, one of the country’s most famous toy manufacturers, known for its range of model trains, some of which can be seen traveling along the large model railway layout in the museum.

City Traditions and Culture

Organ Festival

Today, 70 years after its founding, the ION Music Festival is a vibrant festival and a unique European forum for sacred music. Every year, for ten summer days, it takes place in enchanting churches and exciting locations, with international stars and amazing discoveries, featuring well-known works and new sounds. The ION Forum offers lectures, workshops, master classes, and numerous detailed programs. Every year, tourists can experience the special Nuremberg spirit of peace, profound culture, and reconciliation at the heart of Europe through concerts and numerous meetings.

Old Town Festival

It features over 60 free events, including a traditional fisherman’s joust on the Pegnitz River, various folklore programs, and many musical events, as well as the popular Hans Sachs Plays theatrical program.

Every autumn, Nuremberg’s Old Town Festival gathers guests on Insel Schütt Square and Hans-Sachs-Platz. At both locations, stalls, tables, and an open stage invite locals and tourists to relax and unwind. This traditional event honors local traditions and regional cuisine. Almost every stall at the Old Town Festival offers Franconian autumn dishes such as onion pie and freshly pressed wine. There is no better way to experience the deeply rooted Franconian traditions than here!

The Old Town Festival lasts for two weeks: traditionally, it is opened by the lord mayor tapping the first keg of beer on the main stage. Then a brass band starts the event. All visitors can enjoy music, food, and attractions for children. And at the main market square, one can come across Nuremberg’s autumn market with arts and crafts and traditional culinary masterpieces.

Modern Nuremberg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bavaria, ranking second in the region after Munich. This city is definitely worth visiting, as it beautifully combines the past and present, with locals making every effort to attract tourists to their place and invite them to visit local museums, events, and festivals.

Experienced travelers advise allocating at least a few days to explore Nuremberg. This city has many mysteries and unique legends. You will surely fall in love with it and want to return at least once more.