Fuggerei, Augsburg

Historic Site in Augsburg

CC BY-SA 4.0 / GZagatta

Hidden within the heart of Augsburg lies the Fuggerei, a peaceful walled community that has offered affordable housing to locals for over 500 years. Founded by the wealthy merchant and banker Jakob Fugger in 1516, this remarkable complex continues to serve its original purpose — providing homes for Augsburg's low-income Catholic residents at a rent unchanged since the 16th century. The Fuggerei is one of the must-see places in Augsburg, not only for its historical importance but for its serene atmosphere and beautifully preserved architecture.

Wandering through its quiet courtyards and cobbled lanes, visitors might forget they are in the middle of a bustling city. The uniform rows of ochre-colored houses, green shutters, and flower-filled gardens radiate warmth and simplicity. It's a great place to visit on a walking tour of Augsburg, especially for travelers who enjoy discovering living history — a space where residents still observe centuries-old traditions, including nightly prayers in the community chapel.

History and Significance of the Fuggerei
Things to See and Do in the Fuggerei
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the Fuggerei
Is the Fuggerei Worth Visiting?
Nearby Attractions to the Fuggerei

History and Significance of the Fuggerei

Jakob Fugger, known as “Jakob the Rich,” was one of Europe's most influential figures in the early 16th century. A financier to emperors and popes, he used part of his immense wealth to create the Fuggerei — a charitable housing project that would offer stability and dignity to the working poor. Completed in 1523, the complex included 67 houses, 147 apartments, a chapel, and shared courtyards.

To this day, the rent remains the same as it was five centuries ago — one Rhineland florin per year, roughly equivalent to 0.88 euro cents. However, residents must still meet the same criteria set by Fugger's foundation: they must be Catholic, have lived in Augsburg for at least two years, and be of modest financial means. In return, they are asked to pray daily for the soul of their benefactor, ensuring that spiritual gratitude endures alongside social welfare.

The Fuggerei’s enduring operation makes it not only the oldest but also one of the most successful examples of social housing in the world, blending practical philanthropy with timeless architectural beauty.

Things to See and Do in the Fuggerei

A visit to the Fuggerei offers more than a look at historical buildings — it's a glimpse into a functioning community shaped by centuries of faith and compassion. The on-site museum, housed in one of the original residences, recreates daily life in the 16th and 20th centuries, allowing visitors to see how the apartments have evolved over time. Exhibits also explore Jakob Fugger's legacy and the socio-economic history of Renaissance Augsburg.

You can stroll through the peaceful lanes, admire the traditional gardens, and visit the small St. Mark's Church, where residents still gather for daily prayer. The Fuggerei also includes a World War II bunker exhibition that highlights the impact of the 1944 bombings on Augsburg and its recovery. For those who appreciate architecture and social history, this is one of the top sights in Augsburg, offering a rare combination of beauty and purpose.

How to Get There

The Fuggerei is located near Augsburg's city center, easily reachable by foot, tram, or bus. From Augsburg Hauptbahnhof (main station), take tram line 1 toward Lechhausen and get off at the “Fuggerei” stop — it's just a short walk from there. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. If you’re exploring the city on foot, it’s about a 15-minute walk from the Town Hall Square (Rathausplatz), passing through some of the city’s most charming historic streets. Parking is available nearby, though visiting on foot or via public transport is recommended to experience Augsburg’s old town ambiance. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Fuggerei

Best time to visit Fuggerei: Spring to early autumn for pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
Entrance fee in Euros: €8 for adults, discounts for students and groups.
Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (April–October); 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (November–March).
Official website: www.fugger.de/fuggerei
How long to spend: Around 1–2 hours to explore at a relaxed pace.
Accessibility: Mostly accessible; some cobblestone paths and steps in older buildings.
Facilities: Restrooms, souvenir shop, and small café on-site.
Photography tip: Capture the symmetry of the yellow façades framed by ivy and the quaint street lamps at golden hour.
Guided tours: Available daily; highly recommended for deeper historical insight.
Nearby food options: Traditional Bavarian eateries and cafés around Jakoberstraße and the Rathausplatz area.

Is the Fuggerei Worth Visiting?

Without question. The Fuggerei is one of the things to do in Augsburg that perfectly encapsulates the city's spirit — a blend of history, faith, and community-minded innovation. It's a place where past and present coexist seamlessly, offering both a moving human story and a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. Whether you're interested in architecture, social history, or simply curious about Augsburg's hidden gems, the Fuggerei is an unforgettable stop.

Nearby Attractions to the Fuggerei

Augsburg Cathedral – A magnificent Gothic structure with stained glass windows dating back to the 12th century.
Rathausplatz – The city’s grand central square, home to the Renaissance-style Town Hall and the Golden Hall.
St. Ulrich and St. Afra Basilica – A striking twin-church complex showcasing centuries of religious art and architecture.
Maximilianstraße – Augsburg's elegant main boulevard lined with fountains, boutiques, and cafés.
Augsburger Puppenkiste – A charming puppet theatre and museum beloved by families and nostalgia seekers alike.

The Fuggerei appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Augsburg!

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