Museum
History Vault with State Dungeon
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Located beneath Rothenburg's Town Hall, the History Vault with State Dungeon offers a gripping look at the city's medieval justice system. The vaulted cellars date back to the 13th century and once housed the city's prison and torture chamber. Visitors can walk through the dimly lit stone corridors and see original cells, shackles, and instruments of punishment. The exhibit explains the legal procedures of the time, from trials to executions, and provides a sobering contrast to the fairy-tale charm above ground. The dungeon itself is a chilling highlight, with its thick walls and iron doors. Informational panels in English and German detail the history of crime and punishment in Rothenburg.
Don't miss
- Explore the original medieval dungeon cells
- See authentic torture devices and restraints
- Learn about historic legal practices through exhibits
- Visit the underground treasury room with old coins
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit History Vault with State Dungeon
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inRothenburg Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt4.8★ · 14 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Most bookedPrague Old Town, Medieval Underground and Dungeon Historical Tour4.6★ · 4,680 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$31 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleRomantic Road Exclusive Private Tour from Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber5★ · 42 travelers10–11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$830 per personSee dates →More attractions in Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber