Röderturm, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Tower in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
The Röder Tower (Röderturm) stands proudly as one of the defining features of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's skyline, marking the eastern entrance to the town through the Röder Gate. Once a vital part of the medieval fortifications, the tower today serves not only as one of the top sights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber but also as a powerful symbol of the city's resilience and rebirth. From its observation deck, visitors are rewarded with sweeping views across the red rooftops, narrow cobbled lanes, and the surrounding Tauber Valley.
This area of Rothenburg suffered extensive damage during the final days of World War II in 1945. Much of the quarter around the Röder Tower was reduced to rubble, and the tower itself sustained severe structural damage. Yet, in a remarkable act of preservation and dedication, the citizens of Rothenburg rebuilt the tower shortly after the war, restoring it to its former glory while ensuring that the memory of its destruction was never forgotten. Today, it's a highlight of any walking tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and an inspiring reminder of the town's enduring spirit.
History and Significance of the Röder Tower
The original Röder Tower dates back to the 14th century and formed part of Rothenburg’s defensive wall system. It was once a shell tower - open on the side facing the town - a common design feature before towers were fully enclosed for defensive reasons. The tower guarded the Röder Gate, through which merchants and travelers entered from the east, and its elevated position allowed sentries to monitor the surrounding countryside for approaching danger.
During the bombing of March 1945, this part of Rothenburg was heavily damaged. The Röder Tower’s roof and upper sections were destroyed, leaving only the lower masonry intact. After the war, the Alt-Rothenburg Association led efforts to restore the tower, rebuilding it on a restitutive basis - that is, staying faithful to its historic form. The tower now houses an exhibition that documents the wartime destruction and the city’s remarkable reconstruction, allowing visitors to connect with Rothenburg’s story of survival and renewal.
Things to See and Do in the Röder Tower
Visitors can climb to the Röder Tower’s viewing platform, where an exhibition by the Alt-Rothenburg Association recounts the city’s wartime history through photographs, documents, and artifacts. The display vividly illustrates the destruction that befell Rothenburg in 1945 and the painstaking reconstruction that followed. It’s a powerful experience, made even more meaningful by the surrounding views of a town that has risen beautifully from its ruins.
From the tower’s top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the old town and beyond - particularly striking at sunset when the rooftops glow in shades of red and gold. The gate below still retains much of its medieval structure, and walking through it offers a sense of stepping back in time. The Röder Tower is also part of Rothenburg’s wall walk, allowing you to continue exploring the fortifications that once protected the city.
How to Get There
The Röder Tower is located at Rödergasse, on the eastern side of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's Old Town. It's about a 10-minute walk from Marktplatz, passing picturesque streets lined with timber-framed houses. For visitors arriving by car, parking is available just outside the walls near Rödertor or at the nearby P2 parking lot. 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. Rothenburg is easily accessible by train, with connections via Steinach. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Practical Tips on Visiting the Röder Tower
- Best time to visit the Röder Tower: Late afternoon for sunset views or early morning for soft light and fewer crowds.
- Entrance fee in Euros: Around €2 per person to access the tower.
- Opening hours: Typically April-October, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.
- Official website: www.rothenburg.de
- How long to spend: 30-45 minutes including the climb and exhibition.
- Accessibility: Not suitable for visitors with mobility issues; steep stairs.
- Facilities: Nearby cafés, restrooms, and souvenir shops along Rödergasse.
- Photography tip: Capture the view from the platform with the Marktplatz spires in the distance.
- Guided tours: Included in some Old Town and wall walk tours.
- Nearby food options: Try traditional Franconian cuisine at local restaurants near Rödergasse.
Where to Stay Close to the Röder Tower
Stay nearby at Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeister, offering traditional style and a prime central location. Hotel Altes Brauhaus provides spacious rooms in a beautifully restored brewery. Another charming option is Hotel Klosterstüble, known for its quiet setting and historic ambiance.
Is the Röder Tower Worth Visiting?
Yes - the Röder Tower is one of the must-see places in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Beyond its scenic views, the tower tells a story of endurance, restoration, and civic pride. Climbing it is both a literal and symbolic ascent through Rothenburg's history, from medieval defense to modern resilience.
What Other Travellers Say...
Röderturm is a tall tower at the outer gate of Rothenburg ob der Tauber where a steep staircase leads up through several floors to a viewing room at the top (a small admission fee is charged to reach the summit); visitors praise the rewarding, panoramic views over the town and outskirts, the connection to the city walls for a pleasant walk, and the helpful, friendly attendant who can share local information.
FAQs for Visiting the Röder Tower
Nearby Attractions to the Röder Tower
- Plönlein - Rothenburg's most photographed corner with its iconic twin towers.
- St. James's Church - Gothic masterpiece housing Riemenschneider's Holy Blood altarpiece.
- Medieval Crime Museum - Insightful exhibits on law and justice in medieval Europe.
- Castle Garden - Peaceful park offering panoramic valley views.
- Marktplatz - The vibrant town square with its historic Town Hall and clock tower.
The Röderturm appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber!
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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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Rödertor Gate (0.1) km
City Gate and City Walls - Markusturm (0.2) km
City Walls and Tower - Galgentor (Gallows Gate) (0.3) km
City Gate, City Walls and Tower - Old Town Walls (0.3) km
City Gate and City Walls - Rothenburg White Tower (0.3) km
Tower - Judentanzhaus (0.3) km
Historic Building - Baumeisterhaus (0.3) km
Historic Building - Marktplatz (0.3) km
Square - Ratstrinkstube (0.4) km
Historic Building - Medieval Crime Museum (0.4) km
Museum
