Probably the most famous medieval landmark

The Ploenlein
in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The “Plönlein”, romantically translated as the “Little Corner by the Fountain,” is far more than just a collection of buildings. It is a magical place that extends at the entrance to the Spital Quarter and epitomizes the heartwarming charm of a typical Rothenburg old town scene.

The Ploenlein in Rothenburg is not only a historical site but also a source of fantasy and inspiration.

The Ploenlein in Rothenburg

An enchanted place

At the heart of the Ploenlein stands an enchanting yellow half-timbered house that captures and mesmerizes visitors’ eyes. It encompasses the nearby fountain, which whispers its stories, as well as the proud towers of the ancient city wall, especially the Siebersturm and the majestic Kobolzeller Gate, which rise as guardians of time.

These architectural treasures are not merely silent witnesses to the past but living chroniclers of bygone eras. Dating back to the 14th century, they tell of a rich history and culture that have shaped Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

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Fairytale connection between the Ploenlein & Disney's "Pinocchio"

Have you ever heard of the fairy-tale connection between the Ploenlein in Rothenburg ob der Tauber and art? It served as a source of inspiration for one of the most legendary scenes in Disney’s animated masterpiece “Pinocchio”. Imagine the lovable wooden boy Pinocchio strolling through the picturesque streets of a medieval town. Walt Disney himself was inspired by his own visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and used the Ploenlein as a model for the setting of this memorable film scene.

But the Ploenlein is not only present in Pinocchio. It has become a symbol of the authentic portrayal of a medieval European setting and has appeared in various forms of media. Whether in video games like Tekken Tag Tournament 2, in music videos like Lil Dicky’s “Earth” or even in comics and Japanese mangas like Little Snow Fairy Sugar from 2001—the Ploenlein has secured its place in the artistic world.

A history that can still be felt today.

The view of the narrow, distinctive house between the two towers is particularly popular—a motif that looks like it’s straight out of a picture book. Whether in the sunshine, in the golden light of dusk, or in the winter snow, the Ploenlein enchants every photographer and visitor who wants to capture unforgettable moments.

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Useful information

Address:
Burggasse 3-5 | 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Opening hours:
Daily from 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Last admission: 05:15 PM

Further information can be found here: www.kriminalmuseum.eu

Address:
Marktplatz 2 | 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Opening hours:
Monday to Friday: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Sunday: closed

Address:
Marktplatz 1 | 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Opening hours:
vary according to the respective office
You can find further information here: www.rothenburg.de

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BEAUTY OF BYGONE ERAS

TOP sights in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Colored facades, slanted gables, wooden beams, golden inscriptions, ornaments, and original carvings – not only do our whimsical half-timbered houses in Rothenburg ob der Tauber possess incredible charm. Get to know the most beautiful places and TOP sights of our enchanting city.