Hospital Bastion, Rothenburg

51

Hospital Bastion, Rothenburg

Hospital Bastion, Rothenburg

Hospital Bastion is a remarkable historical structure that holds great significance in the city's history. It was originally incorporated into the city wall in the year 1370, with the intention of serving as Rothenburg's new southern entrance. Over the centuries, the bastion underwent several enhancements, the most notable of which took place in 1586.

During this period, substantial improvements were made to the defenses of the gate, resulting in the addition of a towering gate tower and a unique figure-eight-shaped bastion. This strategic design not only bolstered the fortifications but also added an aesthetically pleasing element to the structure.

The bastion encompasses two spacious courtyards, which provide ample space for various activities and gatherings. With a total of seven gates, including the main entrance, the bastion serves as an important point of entry and exit for visitors to Rothenburg. The gates are designed to facilitate smooth and convenient passage for individuals entering the city or bidding farewell to it.

One of the fascinating features of Hospital Bastion is the upper passage, which offers a vantage point for observing the surroundings and the city beyond. From this elevated position, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque landscape that surrounds Rothenburg.

Surrounded by a dry moat, the bastion presents a unique opportunity for exploration. Visitors can traverse the moat by foot, immersing themselves in the historical atmosphere as they walk along its perimeter. This experience provides a tangible connection to the past and offers a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the time.

Above the gate, a Latin inscription adorns the bastion, serving as a poignant reminder of the values it represents. The inscription reads: "Peace to those who enter; Farewell to those who go."

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Rothenburg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: 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.

Download The 51 App

Hospital Bastion on Map

Sight Name: Hospital Bastion
Sight Location: Rothenburg, Germany (See walking tours in Rothenburg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Rothenburg, Germany

Create Your Own Walk in Rothenburg

Create Your Own Walk in Rothenburg

Creating your own self-guided walk in Rothenburg 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.
Rothenburg Introduction Walking Tour

Rothenburg Introduction Walking Tour

Picturesquely positioned on the steep banks of the River Tauber, the Bavarian town of Rothenburg offers a glimpse into Germany's medieval past.

The town's full name – Rothenburg ob der Tauber – translates to “Red castle above the Tauber”. This moniker stems from the German words “rot” (which means red) and “burg” (castle) and refers to its location (on an elevated...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
Old Town Gates and Towers Walking Tour

Old Town Gates and Towers Walking Tour

The impressive walls surrounding the charming medieval town of Rothenburg showcase a series of distinct gates and towers, each with its unique story and significance.

These fortifications were built in the 14th century to protect the town from outside threats and today serve as one of its most iconic landmarks. Stretching for approximately four kilometers, the stone walls have been carefully...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.9 Km or 1.8 Miles