Medieval Crime Museum | Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The Medieval Crime Museum (Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum) in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, is one of the most fascinating museums in the region, offering a deep dive into the history of medieval law enforcement, punishment, and crime in the Middle Ages. Situated in a historic building near the heart of Rothenburg’s well-preserved medieval center, the museum provides a chilling yet informative look into the darker side of medieval life and justice.

History and Origins

Establishment and Purpose

• The museum was founded in 1974, with the goal of showcasing the history of crime, punishment, and law in the medieval period. It aims to provide an understanding of how crime was perceived and dealt with in the Middle Ages, offering insights into the legal systems, the judicial processes, and the often harsh punishments of the time.
• The museum is located in a historical building that once served as a patrician house, adding to the authenticity of the exhibits and contributing to the medieval atmosphere.

Museum Collection

• The Medieval Crime Museum houses a vast collection of exhibits related to medieval law enforcement, torture, and the judicial system. The museum is one of the most comprehensive collections of its kind in Europe, with more than 2,000 objects on display, spanning the period from the 12th century to the early modern era.
• The exhibits are displayed in thematic sections, focusing on different aspects of medieval crime, punishment, and law.

Key Exhibits and Themes

Medieval Justice

• One of the central themes of the museum is the medieval justice system, which was often brutal and punitive by modern standards. The museum explores how courts worked in the Middle Ages, including trials, accusations, and the types of evidence that were considered valid at the time (e.g., witch trials, confessions under torture).
• The museum offers a closer look at the role of judges and the town councils, who played an important part in determining guilt or innocence in the medieval legal system. It also examines how legal practices differed from modern jurisprudence.

Torture and Punishment

• Perhaps one of the most unsettling sections of the museum deals with the torture and punishment practices of the time. The museum displays a variety of torture instruments, including the infamous breaking wheel, rack, thumbscrews, iron maiden, and scavenger’s daughter. These devices were used to extract confessions or to punish criminals, and they reveal the brutal nature of medieval justice.
• Alongside these instruments, the museum explains the reasons behind the use of torture, often linked to the belief in divine judgment and the idea that the guilty would confess under extreme duress.

Witch Hunts and Trials

• The museum dedicates a significant section to the witch hunts and witch trials that plagued Europe, especially during the 16th and 17th centuries. This section explores how accusations of witchcraft were handled, and it explains the witch trial process, including examinations, torture, and the burning of alleged witches.
• The museum examines how women, in particular, were often targeted during these periods, with superstition and religious fervor playing a central role in the accusations. Visitors can see original documents, such as trial records and writs, that provide a glimpse into the fear-driven culture of witch hunts.

Criminal Behavior and Laws

• The museum also explores the types of crimes that were common in the medieval period, such as theft, murder, bribery, and treason. It highlights how these crimes were punished and the social stigmas associated with being branded a criminal.
• The museum displays objects related to the crimes themselves, including chains for imprisoning suspects, early handcuffs, and branding irons used to mark criminals.

Execution and Public Punishments

• A significant part of the museum is dedicated to the concept of public executions and other forms of public punishment, which were seen as a way to deter crime and reinforce the power of the state. The museum displays execution tools and documents that were used during public trials and executions.
• Some exhibits highlight the use of scaffolds, public flogging, and the pillory, where criminals were humiliated and punished in front of crowds.

Documents and Artifacts

• In addition to the torture devices and punishment tools, the museum houses a variety of documents, legal texts, and artifacts that illustrate medieval legal practices. These include manuscripts detailing court cases, letters of pardon, and court fines.
• Visitors can learn about the role of medieval lawyers, scribes, and clerks, who played a role in writing legal documents and ensuring that the judicial process ran smoothly.

Famous Trials and Cases

• The museum also showcases famous historical cases and trials, such as the trial of the “Witches of Rothenburg” and the trial of the Templars. These cases reveal the sometimes arbitrary and unjust nature of medieval trials, where social status, superstition, and politics often played a larger role than actual guilt or innocence.

Visitor Experience

Atmosphere

• The museum itself is housed in a historical building with a medieval ambiance, contributing to the experience. The rooms are dark and atmospheric, with period lighting and displays designed to reflect the historical context of the exhibits.
• Many of the exhibits are presented with detailed labels and descriptions in multiple languages, including German and English, making the museum accessible to a broad audience. The museum also offers audio guides for visitors who want more in-depth commentary on the exhibits.

Educational Programs and Special Exhibits

• The museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the history of crime and punishment in the Middle Ages, and it offers guided tours and special programs for school groups and tourists.
• Special exhibits and events are regularly held, focusing on specific themes, such as medieval medicine, witchcraft, and religion, further enriching the museum's offerings.

Interactive Elements

• The museum includes a few interactive elements, such as replica torture devices where visitors can learn about their function through touch (although this is usually done in a respectful and educational manner).
• The museum encourages reflection on the evolution of justice systems and the moral lessons that can be drawn from the past.

Conclusion

The Medieval Crime Museum in Rothenburg ob der Tauber offers a unique and compelling experience, shedding light on the often-gruesome practices of medieval law and justice. It provides a rare opportunity to delve into the darker aspects of history and gain a deeper understanding of how crime was dealt with in a time when superstition, religion, and fear were key drivers of the legal system. With its comprehensive collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits, the museum is an essential stop for anyone interested in medieval history, law, or the development of criminal justice.