Immersed in the captivating history of Nördlingen, the medieval walls serve as a magnificent testament to the town’s rich heritage. Their remarkable state of preservation beckons visitors to embark on a captivating journey through time. The entirety of the loop spans 2.6 kilometres, offering breath-taking panoramic views that encompass the town’s charming streets and the scenic countryside beyond.

While traversing the walls, you will encounter a series of meticulously maintained towers that add to the allure of this extraordinary experience. Each tower stands as a silent witness to the town’s past, contributing its own unique charm to the architectural ensemble.

As you walk along the walls, take a moment to absorb the remarkable vistas, capturing the essence of Nördlingen’s timeless beauty. The interplay between the town’s medieval streets and the surrounding countryside creates a harmonious tapestry that delights the senses.

The Stadtmauer Museum, also known as the City Wall Museum, is housed within the Löpsinger Tower, a 14th-century tower located on the northern section of Nördlingen’s city wall. This captivating museum showcases a collection of exhibits that delve into the tumultuous events of the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), including the renowned Battle of Nördlingen.

Step inside the museum and be transported back in time as you explore the carefully curated displays. The exhibits offer a unique glimpse into the historical significance of the war and its impact on the town and its inhabitants. Immerse yourself in the stories, artifacts, and visuals that bring this pivotal period to life.

Learn about the dramatic events that unfolded during the Battle of Nördlingen, which took place on the very grounds where you stand. Gain a deeper understanding of the strategies, weaponry, and key figures involved in this significant conflict. The museum’s informative displays provide valuable insights into the war’s consequences and the resilience of the people of Nördlingen.

The Infozentrum Geopark Ries is a compact and complimentary exhibition dedicated to the Nördlingen Ries and Geopark. While there may be some overlap with the neighboring Rieskrater Museum, the focus here is primarily on the local area, showcasing aspects such as flora, fauna, and enticing walking trails for visitors to explore.

The Rieskrater Museum, also known as the Ries Crater Museum, is a fascinating institution dedicated to the study of meteors and their impact on Earth. Housed in a historic 16th-century barn in Nördlingen, Germany, which was once part of the medieval city’s center, the museum offers a captivating journey into the world of celestial collisions.

The Nördlinger Ries area holds significant geological importance as the site of a meteorite impact approximately 15 million years ago. This impact, which may have been a double impact alongside the nearby Steinheim crater, has been recognized since the early 1960s. The museum’s collection encompasses a wide range of exhibits, including a genuine moon rock on loan from NASA’s Apollo 16 mission. The loan was facilitated by the utilization of the Nordlingen crater for training Apollo 14 astronauts, as the crater bears striking similarities to lunar craters.

Affiliated with the Geopark Ries, a member of UNESCO’s International Network of Geoparks, the museum plays a vital role in the preservation and understanding of the crater’s geological significance.

Located in the historic Holy Spirit Hospital, the Nördlingen City Museum (Stadtmuseum) is a treasure trove of history spread across four fascinating floors. Through its engaging exhibitions, the museum delves into the rich tapestry of life in Nördlingen, showcasing the beliefs, customs, and significant events that have shaped the town.

Marktplatz square in Nördlingen is home to a collection of captivating historic buildings. One such building is the remarkable Tanzhaus, which dates back to the 15th century. This impressive structure served a dual purpose as both a bustling trading hall and a lively dance hall, reflecting the vibrant social and commercial life of the town.

Standing proudly on the square is the Rathaus, or town hall, which holds an even more ancient legacy. With origins tracing back to the 13th century, the Rathaus has remained in continuous use as a central hub for civic affairs since 1382, making it one of the oldest town halls in Germany. Its commanding presence is enhanced by the grand stone stairs adorning the exterior, an architectural feature added in 1618. Be sure to pay attention to the door leading into a small house nestled beneath the stairs, where a captivating carving of its inhabitant can be found just outside.

The Leihhaus, opposite the town hall, is from 1522 and now contains the tourist information (open 9am-6pm Mon-Thu, 9am-4:30pm Fri, 10am-2pm Sat, closed Sun).

The Gothic church of St. George stands proudly as one of the largest in Southern Germany and holds great significance as the main Protestant church in Nördlingen. Constructed at the end of the 15th century, it showcases a remarkable blend of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles.

Upon entering St. George’s Church, visitors will be captivated by the magnificent interior adorned with elements of both Gothic and Baroque design. The altar, epitaphs dedicated to notable townspeople, and a meticulously reconstructed 10th-century organ all showcase the beauty of Baroque craftsmanship.

As you explore further, you’ll discover elements of Neo-Renaissance style in the colonnade and intricately carved images of chimeras on wooden seats. These details add a touch of grandeur and artistic flair to the church’s interior.

One of the highlights of St. George’s Church is its breathtaking tower, known as the Daniel Tower. Reaching an impressive height of 90 meters, this tower serves as a marvelous observation deck. To enjoy the panoramic views of the town and its surroundings, visitors can climb approximately 350 stairs to reach the top. From this vantage point, the vast meteorite crater and the circular walls that encircle the entire town come into full view, providing a unique perspective on Nördlingen’s remarkable geography.

A visit to St. George’s Church offers a captivating journey through architectural history and provides an opportunity to appreciate the town’s natural surroundings from a stunning vantage point. Whether you’re drawn to the Gothic splendor, the Baroque embellishments, or the panoramic views, St. George’s Church is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.