Siedlung Römerstadt

Siedlung Römerstadt Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Frankfurt: Complete Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Siedlung Römerstadt, nestled in Frankfurt am Main’s scenic Nidda Valley, is a pioneering example of early 20th-century modernist urban planning and social housing. Conceived as part of the transformative “Neues Frankfurt” initiative led by Ernst May, Römerstadt was developed between 1927 and 1929 to address post-WWI housing shortages with healthy, affordable homes for working- and middle-class families. Its location on the historical site of the Roman town of Nida inspired its name and deepened its ties to Frankfurt’s layered history.

Today, Römerstadt is a protected architectural monument and a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status, celebrated for its Bauhaus-influenced design, green spaces, and the groundbreaking “Frankfurt Kitchen.” Visitors can explore this living museum, experience the Ernst-May-Haus, and walk through a unique blend of modernist ideals and natural landscapes. This comprehensive guide provides historical context, architectural highlights, practical visiting information, and tips to help you make the most of your trip.

For updated details and booking, visit the Ernst May Gesellschaft, view images and documentation at Streetwise Photography, or check the Frankfurt city tourism portal.

Introduction
Historical Background
Architectural Features and Urban Planning
Social and Cultural Significance
Visiting Information
Getting There and Orientation
Visitor Experience: What to See and Do
Events and Activities
Accessibility and Facilities
Tips for a Memorable Visit
FAQ
Further Exploration
References

Historical Background

Origins and Urban Planning Context

Römerstadt emerged from the social and political ambitions of the Weimar Republic, aiming to replace overcrowded tenements with healthier, modern housing. The “Neues Frankfurt” program (1925–1935), under Mayor Ludwig Landmann and Ernst May, constructed over 25 settlements, with Römerstadt as a flagship project. The settlement’s design drew inspiration from the English Garden City movement, integrating modular construction and green spaces, and situating the community on the ancient Roman site of Nida.

Architectural Vision

Ernst May, with collaborators such as Max Boehm and landscape architect Leberecht Migge, designed Römerstadt with gently curving streets, row houses oriented for sunlight, and abundant parks and gardens. Bauhaus aesthetics—clean lines, flat roofs, and functional layouts—are evident throughout. The project anticipated many modern urban planning concepts, including mixed-use zoning and neighborhood self-sufficiency.

Preservation and Legacy

Römerstadt remains a protected monument, recognized as a model of sustainable, community-centered urbanism. The Ernst-May-Haus operates as a museum, preserving the original “Frankfurt Kitchen” and period interiors.

Architectural Features and Urban Planning

Modular Construction: Standardized components enabled rapid, cost-effective building.
Bauhaus Influence: Functional, minimalist architecture with emphasis on light, air, and green views.
Integration with Nature: Abundant communal gardens, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the Nidda river.
Self-Sufficiency: Shops, schools, and recreation facilities were integrated into the settlement.
Historic Layers: Roman heritage is still visible through street names and interpretive plaques.

Römerstadt was designed to foster social equality, health, and community. The uniform access to light, air, and green space reflected egalitarian principles. The innovative “Frankfurt Kitchen,” by Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, revolutionized domestic efficiency.

Community life thrives through regular events, while the settlement’s ongoing preservation and educational programs connect past ideals to contemporary urban challenges.

Visiting Information

Ernst-May-Haus (Museum)

Address: Im Burgfeld 136, 60439 Frankfurt-Römerstadt
Visiting Hours (2025):
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00–16:00
- Saturday and Sunday: 12:00–17:00
- Closed Mondays and Fridays
Tickets: Admission is free or for a nominal fee. Donations appreciated. Check current info.
Guided Tours: Regular public tours on weekends and during events; English tours by arrangement. Book through the Ernst May Gesellschaft website.

General Settlement Access

Römerstadt is a residential neighborhood open year-round. Parks and public spaces are accessible from dawn to dusk.
No entrance fee to walk the settlement or gardens.
Please respect residents’ privacy.

Getting There and Orientation

By U-Bahn: Römerstadt station (lines U1, U9) is the closest. Heddernheim station (U1, U3, U9) is also nearby. Both are about 20 minutes from Frankfurt’s city center.
By Bus: Several lines serve nearby stops.
By Car: Street parking is limited. Public transport is recommended.
Tour Meeting Points: Most tours start at the bridge above Römerstadt U-Bahn station or at the Ernst-May-Haus (Frankfurt.de).

Visitor Experience: What to See and Do

Explore the Settlement

Walk notable streets like Im Burgfeld, Hadrianstraße, and In der Römerstadt.
Observe Bauhaus facades, communal gardens, and the “Rundling” circular block.
Look for interpretive signs about the Roman past.

Ernst-May-Haus Museum

Experience the restored 1920s interiors and the original Frankfurt Kitchen.
Learn about the social and architectural history of Neues Frankfurt.

Green Spaces and Trails

Enjoy walking paths along the Nidda river and communal gardens.
Explore nearby trails like the Mühlenwanderweg (Mill Trail).

Photography

Best photo spots: the bridge over Rosa-Luxemburg-Straße, southern end of the Rundling, and riverbank trails.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light.

Events and Activities

Mayfest (August): Special tours, lectures, and community events.
Lampionfest: Illuminated streets and music (check Frankfurt.de).
Public Tours: Regularly scheduled, focus on architecture and history (Architour).
Booking: Register in advance for events and tours, especially during peak seasons.

Accessibility and Facilities

Most public areas and the museum are wheelchair accessible, though some historic features may limit access.
Settlement amenities are limited; restrooms are available at U-Bahn stations or nearby shopping centers.
Dining: Options are found in Heddernheim or at Nordwestzentrum shopping center.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Best Times: Spring and early autumn for gardens and weather.
Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, water and snacks, translation app if needed.
Respect: Römerstadt is a living neighborhood—respect privacy and property.
Language: Most tours are in German; English tours available by arrangement.
Support Preservation: Donations to Ernst-May-Gesellschaft help maintain the site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Ernst-May-Haus?
A: Tuesday–Thursday: 11:00–16:00, Saturday–Sunday: 12:00–17:00, closed Mondays and Fridays.

Q: Do I need to buy a ticket?
A: Admission is generally free or for a small nominal fee. Check the official website for updates.

Q: How do I get there from city center?
A: Take U-Bahn lines U1 or U9 from Hauptwache to Römerstadt station (about 20 minutes).

Q: Is it accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Most public areas and the museum are accessible, though some original features may be challenging.

Q: Are tours available in English?
A: Yes, by prior arrangement.

Q: Are there food options nearby?
A: Yes, in Heddernheim and Nordwestzentrum.

Further Exploration

Visit other Neues Frankfurt settlements, such as Heimatsiedlung and Riederwald-Ost (Architour).
The Archaeological Museum Frankfurt displays artifacts from ancient Nida.
Explore virtual tours and photo galleries online (example virtual tour).

References

Conclusion and Call to Action

Siedlung Römerstadt is a testament to Frankfurt’s modernist ambitions and the ongoing relevance of thoughtful, socially minded urban planning. Whether you are drawn by architecture, history, or green spaces, Römerstadt offers a rich and inspiring experience. For latest updates, downloads, and exclusive content, consider the Audiala app. Start planning your visit and immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s cultural and architectural heritage.