History & Hosts
                        A journey through history
History & Hosts
A journey through history
Best price guarantee rooms in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Hotel

History & Hosts

A journey through history

The history of Hotel Gotisches Haus extends back to a time when the city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber was a significant trading hub. The patrician house has witnessed political changes, economic prosperity, and cultural flourishing over the centuries. It has endured through the ages and now shines in its full glory to welcome guests from around the world.

Step into the past, learn more about the history and hosts, and experience a touch of the Middle Ages.

Logo Hotel Gotisches Haus

Your hosts

Warm hospitality with years of hotel experience.

For generations, passion and dedication have defined our family-run hotel, offering our guests an unforgettable stay amidst this enchanting city. Our family has deep roots in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and we take pride in introducing you to the beauty and magic of our city, providing a stay that exceeds your expectations.

Step inside and let yourself be transported to bygone eras through the Gothic architecture and charming ambiance of our hotel. Each room holds a touch of nostalgia, inviting you to experience the unique atmosphere of past epochs.

Your hosts

Family Rüter

and the team of Hotel ‘Gotisches Haus’

The history of the house

A brief history of time

Historie und Gastgeber
13th century

Origins in the Middle Ages

Our hotel traces its roots back to the 13th century, specifically in 1278, when it was constructed as a residence for affluent patrician families in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. During this time, Rothenburg was a significant trading city and an integral part of the Holy Roman Empire. The patricians residing in this city were wealthy merchants and members of the urban nobility.

Over the centuries, our hotel underwent several renovations and expansions. However, it retained its Gothic architecture and charm.

an anecdote

The entry of Emperor Frederick III in 1474

The entry of Emperor Frederick III in 1474

It is said that the four gentlemen (council members) accompanied the Imperial Majesty, two on each side of the carriage, to the gracious lodging in Christoffel Bermeter’s house, located near the Barefoot Monastery (i.e., next to the area of the Franciscan monastery at the old cattle market, now known as Herrngasse 15 with the modern plaque that notes this visit).

After this, the four gentlemen, apart from our Lord the Emperor’s lodging (Herrngasse 15), entered the house of Thomas Mayrin (Herrngasse 13), the present-day Gotisches Haus hotel, which were connected. In this house, Duke Maximilian of Austria, the son of our Lord the Holy Roman Emperor, resided with his entourage.

The then 14-year-old Crown Prince, later Emperor Maximilian*, thus lived in the neighboring house at Herrngasse 15, and the Rothenburg Council had temporarily connected the two buildings with a specially created passage for the greater convenience of both His Majesty and, of course, his servants. This arrangement prevented the high-profile visitors from having to use the street, where they would likely have been exposed to unnecessary scrutiny. These improvised architectural changes are also documented for later imperial visits to Rothenburg.

By Ekkehart Tittmann – from the archive for house research in Rothenburg

17th – 19th century

Resistance against destruction during the Thirty Years' War

During the devastating Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century, Rothenburg ob der Tauber suffered greatly. However, the Gotisches Haus defied the destruction and remained largely unharmed. It survived this tumultuous period and was subsequently used as an inn, welcoming travelers from around the world. Afterwards, the town entered a kind of ‘hibernation’.

In the 19th century, Rothenburg ob der Tauber gained increasing popularity due to its medieval beauty and historical significance. Our hotel became a sought-after destination for tourists eager to experience the unique ambiance of the city up close. As an inn, it provided accommodation and meals to guests in an authentic historical setting.

20th century

Conversion to a hotel in the post-war period

In the year 1950, the Gotisches Haus was officially converted into a hotel and received the name ‘Hotel Gotisches Haus.’ It underwent renovations and modernization to meet the increasing demands of guests. However, care was taken to preserve the historical charm and unique architecture of the building.

For instance, our lobby still hints at the former carriage entrance. The right arch, simultaneously the highest, was once used as an entrance for tall passenger carriages. During that time, livestock was often kept on the ground floor, providing natural warmth that heated the upper floors and, consequently, the living spaces. Explore further details such as the intricate engravings by stonemasons, well-preserved timber framing, and charming medieval wooden arches.

2000 – 2002

Renovation & extension of the hotel

Between 2000 and 2002, we lovingly renovated our hotel, giving the old patrician house a new splendour and making it the first 4-star hotel in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. We take particular pride in having revealed the impressive natural stone masonry, giving the hotel a distinctive character and establishing a connection to the rich history of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Throughout the renovation process, preserving the original character and medieval charm of the entire patrician house was a special concern for us.

Each room was carefully designed to respect the historical context while providing modern comfort. This way, our guests can sense the magic of bygone eras while enjoying all the conveniences of today.

Today, our hotel, Gotisches Haus, stands as a harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern comfort. It is a place that enchants our guests with its fascinating past.

History and hosts - a look back

History and hosts - a look back

Fascinating impressions
of bygone times

Fascinating impressions of bygone times

Digital guest folder

Browse comfortably at home

Would you like to learn more about our establishment and its intriguing history? Our digital guest folder and image brochure are the ideal ways to gain a first impression of our hotel.

Dateigröße: ca. 8,6 MB

Dateigröße: ca. 9,82 MB