Frankfurt Romer | Frankfurt

Römer – In Detail

The Römer is one of Frankfurt's most iconic landmarks and a key part of the city's historic center. It is both a symbol of Frankfurt’s medieval past and an important seat of local government today. This historic building complex, located in the Altstadt (Old Town), has played a central role in the city's political and cultural life for over 600 years.

Overview

• Location: The Römer is situated on Römerberg, the main square in Frankfurt's Altstadt (Old Town), which is one of the city's most visited areas. It is surrounded by other historic buildings, making it a central hub for both tourists and locals alike.
• Function: The Römer has served as the city hall (Rathaus) of Frankfurt since the 14th century and continues to be used for municipal purposes today. It is also home to the city’s administrative offices, and it hosts important civic ceremonies, such as the annual City Day.

History and Architecture

Medieval Origins:

• The Römer was first mentioned in historical records in 1100, but the structure as it stands today developed over several centuries. Originally built as a merchant's house, it gradually became the center of Frankfurt's civic life.
• The building complex grew and expanded over time, with the oldest parts dating back to the 13th century.

Growth and Expansion:

• The Römer is actually a complex of several buildings that were joined together, including the main building (the Römer itself), which faces Römerberg square, and a few smaller annexes.
• Over the years, the complex was extended with additional wings, creating a distinctive multi-gabled design. The facades feature a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, with ornate windows and steep roofs.

The Three Gables:

• One of the defining features of the Römer’s design is its three gables at the top of the main building, which have become a symbol of the city. The gables are adorned with sculptures, and their distinctive triangular shape is a hallmark of medieval Frankfurt architecture.
• The façade also features stately windows, which reflect the importance of the building, while the timber-framed design gives it a unique and historic charm.

Frankfurt’s Imperial Coronation Hall:

• In addition to its function as the city hall, the Römer holds a unique place in German history. It was used as the site for the coronation of the Holy Roman Emperors in the medieval period, which gave it significant political and symbolic importance.
• The Emperor’s Hall (Kaiserhalle) in the Römer was used for these coronations, where kings were crowned as Holy Roman Emperors. The hall features impressive Renaissance frescoes and medieval tapestries that highlight the grandeur of these events.

Key Features and Attractions

Römerberg Square:

• The Römer is located at the center of Römerberg Square, the historic heart of Frankfurt. The square is surrounded by traditional buildings, including the Historical Museum, St. Nicholas' Church, and several medieval-style townhouses.
• The square itself is often filled with market stalls, festivals, and public gatherings, making it a lively and vibrant spot for visitors and locals.

City Hall (Rathaus):

• Today, the Römer continues to serve as Frankfurt’s city hall. It houses various government offices and is a key administrative building for the city. Public ceremonies, including the annual City Day, take place here.
• Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the building to learn more about its history and importance in the civic life of Frankfurt.

The Römer’s Rooms and Interiors:

• The interior of the Römer has been carefully restored to maintain its historical beauty. Highlights include:
  • The Kaisersaal (Emperor's Hall): This impressive hall features frescoes that depict the coronation ceremonies of the Holy Roman Emperors and is one of the most historically significant rooms in the building.
  • The City Council Chambers: These chambers are used for meetings of Frankfurt’s city council, and their elegant design reflects the importance of the building in municipal governance.
  • The Römer’s Galleries: The building also has several galleries that display artworks and historical artifacts related to the city’s long history.

Museum:

• The Römer complex also contains a small museum where visitors can learn about the building’s history, as well as the history of Frankfurt itself. Exhibits include medieval and Renaissance artifacts, as well as displays that highlight the city’s role in the Holy Roman Empire.
• The museum often features exhibits on the history of Frankfurt's civic governance, showcasing documents and artifacts from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The Römer’s Role in the Christmas Markets:

• In addition to its year-round civic duties, the Römer is central to one of Frankfurt’s most popular seasonal events: the Frankfurt Christmas Market. The Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in Germany, and its festive stalls are set up in Römerberg Square, with the Römer providing a majestic backdrop for the seasonal celebrations.
• During the Christmas market, visitors can shop for handcrafted goods, enjoy traditional German food, and take in the holiday lights around the square.

The Römer’s Courtyards:

• The Römer has several courtyards that are open to visitors, offering peaceful spaces to relax and enjoy the surrounding architecture. These courtyards are often overlooked but are hidden gems in the heart of the city, providing a break from the hustle and bustle of the square.

Cultural and Political Significance

Symbol of Frankfurt:

• The Römer is often regarded as the symbol of Frankfurt’s long history and its status as a free city within the Holy Roman Empire. Its architecture and history reflect the city's importance as a trading hub, a cultural center, and a seat of political power.

Connection to the Holy Roman Empire:

• The Römer’s role as the site of imperial coronations connects it to the broader history of the Holy Roman Empire. It remains one of the most significant historic sites associated with the imperial past of Germany.

Modern Civic Role:

• While the Römer remains a historical monument, it continues to play a central role in Frankfurt’s modern-day civic life, serving as the city hall and hosting major political events.

Accessibility

• Public Transport: The Römer is easily accessible by public transport. It is located near the Römer and Dom/Römer U-Bahn stations, which are part of the Frankfurt U-Bahn system. Several tram and bus lines also pass near the square, making it easy to reach from different parts of the city.
• Walking Distance: The Römer is within walking distance from other popular attractions in Frankfurt, including the Frankfurt Cathedral, the Main River, and the Städelsches Kunstinstitut (Städel Museum).

Conclusion

The Römer is an enduring symbol of Frankfurt’s rich history, blending its medieval origins with its present-day role as a bustling city center. Whether you are interested in German history, architecture, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of Römerberg Square, the Römer offers a glimpse into Frankfurt’s past while remaining a functional and important civic space in the heart of the city. Its stunning architecture, historical significance, and central location make it a must-see landmark for anyone visiting Frankfurt.