Nuremberg – A City to Explore
The Imperial Castle – Nuremberg’s Historic Crown
Towering above the old town, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg stands as the city’s most iconic landmark and a powerful symbol of its medieval heritage. From 1050 to 1571, every emperor of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation stayed here at least once, establishing the castle as one of the most significant imperial residences of the Middle Ages.
Today, visitors can explore the Palas, featuring richly decorated Imperial Apartments, the impressive Romanesque double chapel, the deep well, and the striking Sinwell Tower, which offers panoramic views.
The castle museum also houses a fascinating collection of medieval weapons, tools, and everyday objects, providing valuable insights into imperial life and military tradition.
A visit to Nuremberg would truly be incomplete without experiencing the history and grandeur of this legendary fortress.
The Beautiful Fountain – A Gothic Masterpiece in Nuremberg
Built between 1389 and 1396 by master stonemason Heinrich Beheim, the Schöner Brunnen (“Beautiful Fountain”) is one of Nuremberg’s most iconic landmarks. Rising an impressive 19 metres from its octagonal basin, the stone pyramid resembles the spire of a Gothic church, narrowing elegantly in three distinct tiers to a pointed finial.
In total, 40 sculpted figures are arranged across the fountain’s three levels, each reflecting the worldview of the Holy Roman Empire. On the lowest tier, visitors find allegorical figures representing Philosophy and the Liberal Arts. The middle tier includes the Evangelists and Church Fathers, while the top tier features the Seven Electors, the Nine Worthies, and—at the very summit—Moses and the Seven Prophets.
Surrounding the fountain is an ornate wrought-iron railing, masterfully crafted in 1587 by Augsburg blacksmith Paulus Kühn. It was restored in 1902 by Albert Leipold, who also added the now-famous golden wish ring– a detail still spun by visitors today for good luck.
While the original soft sandstone figures are now carefully preserved in the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, the ones currently on display are shell-limestone replicas, added between 1897 and 1902
Weißgerbergasse – A Glimpse into Medieval Nuremberg
The charming Weißgerbergasse is one of the few streets in Nuremberg where medieval architecture still stands intact. Around twenty half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages survived the heavy air raids of World War II, making this alley a rare and authentic remnant of the city’s past.
Located in the historic Burgviertel, the street was once home to the white tanners—skilled artisans who processed raw hides into fine, pale leather using a mixture of alum, salt, flour, eggs, and tree oil, unlike the red tanners, who used more aggressive tanning methods.
Because tanning required large amounts of water and produced strong odours, the houses in this quarter were typically built near the Pegnitz River and often had their own private wells.
Today, Weißgerbergasse offers a picturesque walk through Nuremberg’s artisan history—full of colour, charm, and craftsmanship.
Albrecht Dürer House – Home of a Renaissance Master
Located at the foot of Nuremberg Castle, the Albrecht Dürer House is one of the city’s most treasured historic sites. This charming timber-framed building was home to the famous German painter, graphic artist, and theorist Albrecht Dürer, who lived and worked here from 1509 until his death in 1528.
Today, the house serves as a museum dedicated to Dürer’s life and work, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into the world of one of the greatest artists of the Northern Renaissance. Through a combination of original rooms, faithful reconstructions, and interactive exhibits, visitors can discover how Dürer lived, thought, and created his masterpieces.
Among the highlights are demonstrations of historic printing techniques, fascinating self-portraits, and a unique tour led by an actress portraying Dürer’s wife, Agnes. In addition, the museum regularly hosts changing exhibitions that explore Dürer’s ongoing influence and legacy.
Situated just steps from the Imperial Castle, this museum is a must-see for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Nuremberg.