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Garden · Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Baviera
Burggarten
Garden on the site of the former imperial castle of the Staufer, on a promontory over the Tauber valley, with the chapel of São Brás and views of the wall and countryside.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Burggarten
The Burggarten occupies the rocky promontory west of the town, where King Conrad III of the Staufer dynasty ordered an imperial castle built around 1142. The castle was abandoned at the end of the Middle Ages and its stones were used in town buildings. Remaining from the fortress is the chapel of São Brás (Blasiuskapelle), now a memorial to victims of the two world wars.
Today the site is a public garden with paths, benches, a fountain and a marker recalling the castle’s foundation. On three sides the ground falls toward the Tauber river, and from the viewpoints you can see the valley, the double bridge over the river and the silhouette of the wall with its towers.
The garden is reached through the Burgtor, the town's west gate, with a 14th‑century tower and a small stone bridge with guard houses from 1596. It is the spot from which Rothenburg is photographed in profile, with the valley in front.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 minutes to an hour.
Best time
In the late afternoon, with the sun setting over the Tauber valley. In spring and summer the garden is in bloom.
How to get there
From the Marktplatz, follow Herrngasse to the end and cross the Burgtor — about a five-minute walk.
Tip
From the garden, a trail descends to the Tauber valley, to the double bridge and the Topplerschlösschen. The return is a steep climb.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Burggarten
Do you have to pay to enter the Burggarten?
No. It's a public garden and entrance is free.
Does Rothenburg still have a castle?
No. Of the 12th-century imperial castle only the chapel of São Brás remains. The garden occupies the site of the former fortress.
Is it a good place to watch the sunset?
Yes. The garden faces west, overlooking the Tauber valley.