Rathausplatz is the main square of Augsburg's old town, a circular cobblestone space with the Renaissance Town Hall at its centre. The Augustus Fountain stands on the square, its bronze figures representing the city's rivers, and the 70-metre Perlach Tower rises nearby. Cafés with outdoor seating line the edges, and the square hosts events and the annual Christmas Market. Come for the architecture, a coffee outdoors, and the Golden Hall inside the Town Hall.
The Peace of Augsburg
The square has seen many defining moments in Augsburg's history. The most famous took place in 1555, when the Peace of Augsburg was proclaimed in the Imperial City.
The agreement introduced the principle "Cuius regio, eius religio", meaning whose realm, his religion. It helped end decades of religious conflict within the Holy Roman Empire and shaped the history of Europe.
The Town Hall
The Town Hall was built by Elias Holl between 1615 and 1620. It replaced an older 13th-century wooden Thing House on the same site.
The building is one of Germany's finest examples of Mannerist architecture. It combines Renaissance and medieval styles in a way that led on to the Baroque, and its sheer size still impresses visitors today.
Inside the Golden Hall
The Golden Hall, or Goldener Saal, is on the second floor of the Town Hall. It is the city's main ceremonial meeting hall and has been meticulously restored.
The hall covers about 500 square metres. Its walls and ceiling carry gold-plated decorations and ceiling murals, along with detailed paintings and historical artefacts from the late Renaissance period. The care taken to preserve the original decoration is part of the experience.
Advance tickets are recommended, so check the timing before you arrive.
Around the square
The Augustus Fountain shows Emperor Augustus watching over the city he founded more than 2,000 years ago. Its bronze figures symbolise the rivers of Augsburg.
The Perlach Tower rises to about 70 metres beside the Romanesque St. Peter am Perlach church. The Tourist Information office for Augsburg is on the square. The Leopold Mozart museum is within walking distance.
The square is used for events and festivals, including the annual Christmas Market, so the space can look different from one visit to the next.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the square wheelchair accessible?
The entrance is wheelchair accessible. The square has no fixed entry fee for walking around it.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended for visits to the Town Hall and the Golden Hall.
Where can I park near Rathausplatz?
There is a paid parking lot and a paid parking garage nearby.
Is Rathausplatz good for children?
Yes, the place is listed as good for kids, and the square is open and easy to walk around.
Where is the Golden Hall inside the Town Hall?
The Golden Hall is on the second floor of the Town Hall.
