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Historical places #1 in Augsburg

Rathausplatz Augsburg

4.6 · 10,096 reviews
Lively and historically significant
Rathausplatz Augsburg, Rathausplatz 1, 86150 Augsburg
Interesting facts
1

The Augustusbrunnen fountain features symbols of the Roman Emperor Augustus, who founded the city in 15 BC.

2

The Goldener Saal (Golden Hall) contains 2.6 kilograms of gold leaf used in its original 17th-century restoration.

3

The Perlachturm tower was originally built as a watchtower in 989 AD before being repurposed as a belfry.

4

Augsburg Town Hall was the first building in the world over six stories high when it was constructed in the early 17th century.

5

The Rathausplatz served as the administrative core for the Free Imperial City of Augsburg during the Holy Roman Empire.

Overview

Rathausplatz is the central historic square of Augsburg, dominated by the Renaissance-style Augsburg Town Hall (Rathaus) completed by Elias Holl in 1620. The square features the Augustusbrunnen, a monumental bronze fountain cast in 1594 that commemorates the 1600th anniversary of the city's founding. It serves as the primary municipal gathering space and sits at the intersection of several significant historic trade routes. The surrounding architecture reflects centuries of influence from the Fugger banking family. The Perlachturm, a 70-meter-tall bell tower, stands adjacent to the square and dates back to the 10th century. Visitors can access the Goldener Saal inside the Town Hall, renowned for its ornate coffered ceiling and gold-leaf wall decorations. The square hosts major seasonal events including the traditional Augsburg Christmas market. Modern city life integrates with the historical footprint through outdoor seating for cafes and proximity to pedestrian shopping zones.

Photo spot

From the center of the square looking toward the Rathaus facade, ensuring both the town hall and the Augustusbrunnen are framed together.

Insider tips

Climb the Perlachturm for a panoramic view of the square and the city skyline.

Visit the basement of the Town Hall to view the exhibition on the history of the building's reconstruction after WWII.

Bring a light jacket even in summer, as the wind can funnel through the square's historic buildings.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the detailed bronze reliefs on the Augustusbrunnen, which many tourists walk past without inspecting closely.

Good to know

The Town Hall interior, specifically the Golden Hall, may occasionally close for private municipal functions or civil ceremonies.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late afternoon on a weekday to catch the shifting light on the Town Hall facade and avoid weekend crowds.
Address
Rathausplatz Augsburg, Rathausplatz 1, 86150 Augsburg
48.369, 10.898
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleRenaissance
Key FeatureGoldener Saal (Golden Hall)

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon on a weekday to catch the shifting light on the Town Hall facade and avoid weekend crowds..

From the center of the square looking toward the Rathaus facade, ensuring both the town hall and the Augustusbrunnen are framed together.

Close by you'll find Fuggerei, Augsburg Cathedral, Hofgarten.