Fuggerhäuser, Augsburg

Historic Building in Augsburg

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ricardalovesmonuments

In the heart of Augsburg's Maximilianstraße lies the Fuggerhäuser, a group of grand Renaissance-era buildings that once symbolized the immense wealth and influence of the Fugger family. Built between 1512 and 1523, these elegant structures were the nerve center of Europe's most powerful banking empire. From these very offices, Jakob Fugger - known as “Jakob the Rich” - financed kings, emperors, and popes, helping to shape the political and economic landscape of 16th-century Europe. Their architecture, a fusion of late Gothic and early Renaissance styles, mirrors the transition between two eras of art and ambition.

Although most of the complex remains closed to the public, the Fuggerhäuser is still one of the top sights in Augsburg and a great place to visit on a walking tour of the city. Visitors can step into the open courtyards and admire the graceful arcades and frescoes that hint at the opulence once enjoyed by this legendary family. The Damenhof, in particular, evokes a sense of quiet grandeur, its delicate Renaissance details a striking contrast to the bustle of modern Maximilianstraße.

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

History and Significance of Fuggerhäuser

The Fuggerhäuser complex was designed by renowned architects Jörg Kölderer and Hans von Burghausen for Jakob Fugger and his family. Completed in the early 16th century, it originally served as both a residence and a business headquarters, underscoring how closely intertwined commerce and daily life were for the Fuggers. At the height of their power, the family's financial network stretched across Europe, funding ventures from the mining of Tyrolean silver to the campaigns of Emperor Charles V.

The buildings were more than just a symbol of wealth - they were a statement of cultural and architectural innovation. Their decorative façades, ornamental courtyards, and refined proportions represented the new Renaissance ideals making their way north from Italy. The Fuggerhäuser also included social institutions funded by the family, such as a hospital and a school, reflecting their long-standing commitment to civic welfare.

Things to See and Do in Fuggerhäuser

Visitors can explore three of the inner courtyards and the ground floor of the Adlertor, located at 37 Maximilianstraße. This area houses a bookshop that opens onto the Damenhof, one of the most beautiful Renaissance courtyards in Germany. With its elegant arcades, frescoed walls, and tranquil atmosphere, the Damenhof offers a glimpse into the world of Renaissance Augsburg - a city once at the crossroads of trade, art, and faith.

While the interior rooms of the Fuggerhäuser remain private, the exteriors themselves are worth admiring. The façades are adorned with intricate stonework and sculptural reliefs that capture the artistry of early 16th-century craftsmen. Informational plaques around the site offer historical context, helping visitors imagine the grandeur that once defined the Fugger dynasty's daily life. For architecture enthusiasts and historians alike, exploring this complex is one of the things to do in Augsburg that reveals the city's Renaissance soul.

How to Get There

The Fuggerhäuser is centrally located on Maximilianstraße in Augsburg's Old Town, within easy walking distance of other major landmarks like the City Hall and Perlachturm. From Augsburg Hauptbahnhof (main station), it's a pleasant 15-minute walk or a short tram ride (Line 1 or 2 to “Moritzplatz”). Limited street parking is available nearby, but it's best reached on foot when exploring the Old Town.

Practical Tips on Visiting Fuggerhäuser

Best time to visit Fuggerhäuser: Late morning or early evening when the courtyards are quiet and beautifully lit.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free (public access to the open courtyards and bookshop area).
Opening hours: Courtyards and bookshop generally open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
Official website: www.fugger.de
How long to spend: 20-40 minutes for a brief visit or longer if exploring nearby landmarks.
Accessibility: Ground-level courtyards accessible; steps in certain areas.
Facilities: Bookshop and nearby cafés along Maximilianstraße.
Photography tip: Capture the arches and frescoed walls of the Damenhof - best in the soft morning light.
Guided tours: Offered occasionally through the Augsburg Tourist Office.
Nearby food options: Numerous restaurants and bistros nearby offering local Swabian and Bavarian dishes.

Is Fuggerhäuser Worth Visiting?

Yes - the Fuggerhäuser is one of the must-see places in Augsburg for those interested in the city's Renaissance past and its role in shaping European history. Even though most of the complex remains private, the accessible courtyards and architectural details provide a rare glimpse into the lifestyle of the world's first great banking dynasty.

Nearby Attractions to Fuggerhäuser

Fuggerei - The world's oldest social housing complex, founded by Jakob Fugger in 1516.
Augsburg City Hall - A Renaissance masterpiece by Elias Holl with the stunning Golden Hall.
Perlachturm - The city's Gothic watchtower offering panoramic views and a daily carillon.
Schaezlerpalais - A Baroque-Rococo palace housing art galleries and opulent interiors.
St. Anne's Church - A Renaissance treasure built by the Fugger family, with frescoes and chapels.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (8,986)

Fuggerei, at Jakoberstraße 26 in Augsburg, is a well‑preserved social housing complex dating from the 16th century that still functions as housing and includes on‑site museums; visitors praise the calm, easy‑to‑navigate grounds, colorful narrow streets and tiny cozy apartments, the informative audio guide and museums (including a bunker), and mention a small beer garden by the entrance—entrance is inexpensive and tickets are purchased at the entrance.

Masnita Grägel

3 months ago

"It was a wonderful experience visiting the world’s oldest public housing. We went on a weekday morning, and the atmosphere was calm and peaceful,which made exploring even more enjoyable. Purchasing the ticket at the entrance was simple, and the site itself was easy to navigate. The area is beautifully maintained, with so much attention to detail that you really feel immersed in its rich history. Walking through the space gives you a true sense of cultural heritage, and it’s both educational and inspiring. I would definitely recommend this visit to anyone interested in culture and history—it’s a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience something truly special...."

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Vintage Hunter

5 months ago

"Really cool to hear about how this social housing was started. The people can live here for €1 per year, and just have to be Catholic, pray everyday,and be in need. It’s definitely worth the €8 entrance fee...."

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Yara Nasser

a week ago

"Walking through the narrow streets and seeing the colorful, well-kept houses takes you back to the 16th century. It's fascinating how this complexhas been functioning for so many centuries and still preserves the spirit of community and history. I especially liked that the entrance fee isn’t expensive, and with the audio guide, you can truly understand the significance of the place. Ideal for history lovers and those who enjoy a peaceful stroll...."

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The Fuggerhäuser appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Augsburg!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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