Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), Bamberg (must see)
The true highlight that awaits you in Bamberg's Old Town is the magnificent Old Town Hall. Perched somewhat precariously in the middle of the bridge, it stands as one of Bavaria's most photographed historic landmarks and is widely acclaimed as one of Germany's top tourist attractions. While a town hall had already occupied this site since 1386, the current structure was rebuilt between 1744 and 1756.
The Old Town Hall is a stunning example of architecture, particularly notable for the exquisite frescoes that adorn its facades. These vibrant paintings depict a fascinating tale that explains the peculiar decision to construct the building on an island. Stepping inside, you will be greeted by further delights, including the beautiful old Rococo hall, a testament to the splendid craftsmanship of the era. Additionally, the Ludwig Collection housed within the Old Town Hall showcases over 300 exquisite 18th-century pieces, such as animal-shaped tureens, figurines, and dinner services crafted from porcelain.
If you happen to visit during the Christmas season, a visit to the Old Town Hall becomes even more special. The Ludwig Collection unveils an impressive nativity scene composed of approximately 400 porcelain figures, evoking the spirit of the holiday season. Similar enchanting displays can be found in many of the city's top tourist attractions, with some of the finest examples showcased at the Bamber Nativity Museum. This charming museum, although small in size, hosts a captivating collection of antique cribs and Christmas exhibits, adding an extra touch of wonder to your visit.
The Old Town Hall in Bamberg offers not only architectural splendor and historical significance but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive charm of the city during the holiday season. From its breathtaking frescoes to the remarkable Ludwig Collection, this iconic landmark invites you to discover the rich cultural heritage and captivating stories that lie within its walls.
Open year round, 24/7.
The Old Town Hall is a stunning example of architecture, particularly notable for the exquisite frescoes that adorn its facades. These vibrant paintings depict a fascinating tale that explains the peculiar decision to construct the building on an island. Stepping inside, you will be greeted by further delights, including the beautiful old Rococo hall, a testament to the splendid craftsmanship of the era. Additionally, the Ludwig Collection housed within the Old Town Hall showcases over 300 exquisite 18th-century pieces, such as animal-shaped tureens, figurines, and dinner services crafted from porcelain.
If you happen to visit during the Christmas season, a visit to the Old Town Hall becomes even more special. The Ludwig Collection unveils an impressive nativity scene composed of approximately 400 porcelain figures, evoking the spirit of the holiday season. Similar enchanting displays can be found in many of the city's top tourist attractions, with some of the finest examples showcased at the Bamber Nativity Museum. This charming museum, although small in size, hosts a captivating collection of antique cribs and Christmas exhibits, adding an extra touch of wonder to your visit.
The Old Town Hall in Bamberg offers not only architectural splendor and historical significance but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive charm of the city during the holiday season. From its breathtaking frescoes to the remarkable Ludwig Collection, this iconic landmark invites you to discover the rich cultural heritage and captivating stories that lie within its walls.
Open year round, 24/7.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Bamberg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) on Map
Sight Name: Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
Sight Location: Bamberg, Germany (See walking tours in Bamberg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Bamberg, Germany (See walking tours in Bamberg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Bamberg, Germany
Create Your Own Walk in Bamberg
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bamberg is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Best Brewpubs In Bamberg Walk
"Brewer's Paradise". Speaking of Bamberg, the town that is regarded as one of the beer capitals of Germany, this expression encapsulates the image of a true haven for beer lovers and brewers alike. Bamberg's "liquid history" goes back over 900 years. The first documented mention of brewing in Bamberg dates to 1122 and the city has been closely associated with beer... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Bamber Introduction Walking Tour
“Like a jewel gleaming upon the verdant crown of Germany,” the resplendent city of Bamberg is nestled amid the idyllic landscapes of the Upper Franconia region of Bavaria.
“The happy Bamberg” ("Das glückliche Bamberg"). This cheerful title is attributed to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited the city and expressed his admiration for it. And while this is not as widely... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
“The happy Bamberg” ("Das glückliche Bamberg"). This cheerful title is attributed to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited the city and expressed his admiration for it. And while this is not as widely... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles