Kobolzeller Turm (Kobolzell Tower), Rothenburg

Serving as the shortest route from the double bridge over the Tauber Valley to the bustling Little Square, the Kobolzell Gate built around 1360, has been a pivotal passageway for generations of travelers and residents alike.

The rectangular gate tower at Kobolzell Gate is a venerable relic, predating even the city's protective walls. Its inscriptions, skillfully rebuilt in 1727, offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to preservation that define Rothenburg's heritage. As visitors approach, they are met with the silent echoes of centuries gone by, as the gate stands as both a guardian and a storyteller of times long past.

A captivating feature of the Kobolzell Gate is the small customs house found at the beginning of the elongated Barbican. This charming structure speaks to the historical significance of this entryway as a point of passage for travelers and merchants, bearing witness to the city's connections and trade routes that once flowed through its gates.

The intriguingly named "Devil's Pulpit" adds another layer of intrigue to this historical site. Originally known as the Torbarbakane, this structure once served as a military bay window, a vantage point that allowed defenders to keep a watchful eye on the surroundings. Imbued with a sense of mystery and purpose, the Devil's Pulpit has been meticulously restored in 1970, ensuring that its historic value endures for future generations.

The Kobolzell Gate invites visitors to step back in time and witness the legacy of Rothenburg's past. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of a city that honors its history while embracing modernity. As visitors walk through its arches, they are not merely entering a physical space, but a gateway to the stories, triumphs, and struggles that have shaped the identity of Rothenburg for generations.