RÖMERBERG

Since 95% of the city was destroyed during the war, the Römerberg is one of the few places that give an idea of what Frankfurt used to be like. It is the historical center of Frankfurt. Rebuilt in 1986, it is now one of the prettiest squares in the city, with its half-timbered houses. The Römer itself is now the home of the mayor and his deputy. Its beautiful gabled facade features statues of Emperors Barbarossa, Charles IV, Ludwig II and Maximilian II.

In the center of the square stands the statue of the Goddess of Justice, another symbol of Frankfurt's democratic tradition. It is from here that demonstrations once started and it was at her feet that the Nazis burned books deemed degenerate in the infamous autodafés.

A little further on is the Nikolaikirche (St. Nicholas Church), a place of religious and social life. In the past, the little people would meet the notables here for a common prayer. Today, the rebuilt old town is expanding, because between the Römerberg and the cathedral, 75 houses are being built, following the historical plan of before the destruction, to replace the very concrete extension of the town hall, destroyed in 2004. There are very old houses, reflecting the typical architecture of a German village. Some of them date back to medieval times. Stop by the square to enjoy a local delicacy and to observe the liveliness.