Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Christmas Town Rothenburg: German Christmas Museum, Reiterlesmarkt and medieval flair all around.

Romanticism is always in season in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, but in winter, it’s at its best and the “Reiterlesmarkt” has a lot to do with it. The market is located on winding, narrow streets, the Market Square and in front of the town hall building. Enjoy old-fashioned, German Christmas cookies, hot, white, mulled wine, arts and crafts, and the night watchman. For the best view of all the pre-Christmas activities at the “Reiterlesmarkt” we recommend climbing the town hall tower.

Appearances of the Rothenburg “Reiterle” (Little Horseback Rider) are the highlight of the Christmas market in this romantic town. The “Reiterle” is the namesake of the market and his origin goes all the way back to pre-historic times. The “Reiterle” was believed to be an envoy from a different world, who visited regularly in winter. He would be seen riding through the air, carrying the souls of the deceased ones. The image of this mystical figure has, however, changed throughout the centuries. In the past, people feared this eerie character, but today people of all ages are looking forward to his appearances at the “Reiterlesmarkt.”

In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Christmas is always in season: Year-round, the German Christmas Museum showcases the diverse history of Christmas celebrations. On display are historical Christmas ornaments, Santa Claus figures, gingerbread tins, and Advent calendars.

more information about Christmas in Rothenburg