Mauthalle

Mauthalle Nuremberg Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Situated in the heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town, the Mauthalle is an architectural and historical landmark that encapsulates the city’s commercial prominence and medieval heritage. Originally constructed between 1498 and 1502, this monumental granary-turned-customs hall stands as a testament to Nuremberg’s role in European trade, its resilience through wartime devastation, and its vibrant modern-day life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply a curious visitor, the Mauthalle offers a unique window into the past, blending late-Gothic grandeur with contemporary cultural vitality (tourismus.nuernberg.de; de.wikipedia.org; nuremberg.museum).

This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on Mauthalle’s history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your visit, along with recommended nearby attractions and resources for further exploration.

Introduction
The Historical Evolution of the Mauthalle
Architectural Features and Artistic Highlights
- Exterior Design and Decorative Elements
- Vaulted Cellar and Interior Spaces
Visitor Information
FAQ: Essential Visitor Questions
Summary and Final Tips
References and Further Reading

The Historical Evolution of the Mauthalle

Medieval Origins and Function

Commissioned between 1498 and 1502 during a period of economic prosperity, the Mauthalle was designed by Hans Behaim the Elder as a granary (Kornspeicher) to secure the city’s vital grain and food reserves. Its vast dimensions—84 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 29 meters in height—reflect both the scale of Nuremberg’s commerce and the necessity of safeguarding supplies against fire, theft, and spoilage (tourismus.nuernberg.de; de.wikipedia.org).

Transition to Customs Hall

By the 19th century, the shifting patterns of trade led to the building’s repurposing as the city’s customs hall (Mauthalle), overseeing the inspection and taxation of goods entering Nuremberg. This transformation underscored Nuremberg’s continued significance as a regional trading hub and the building’s role in the city’s economic infrastructure (Stadtportal Nürnberg).

Wartime Damage and Postwar Restoration

The Mauthalle sustained severe damage during Allied bombing raids in World War II, particularly in 1943 and 1945, which destroyed the roof and parts of the façade. Extensive restoration between 1951 and 1953 preserved the building’s late-Gothic form while introducing simplified features due to postwar constraints (de.wikipedia.org). Today, the Mauthalle stands as a symbol of Nuremberg’s resilience and dedication to its heritage.

Architectural Features and Artistic Highlights

Exterior Design and Decorative Elements

The Mauthalle’s robust late-Gothic architecture is characterized by thick sandstone walls, a three-story base crowned by a five-story gabled roof, and distinctive dormers. The eastern gable is especially striking, featuring elaborate blind ogee arches, pilaster strips, and a unique fish-bladder motif (“fischblasenartiges Muster”) that distinguishes it among Nuremberg’s civic buildings (tourismus.nuernberg.de). At the base of the gable, the pointed-arch portal—adorned with the imperial eagle and city coat of arms sculpted by Adam Kraft in 1502—serves as a focal point for the building’s public face (nuremberg.museum).

Vaulted Cellar and Interior Spaces

Beneath the Mauthalle lies a vaulted cellar supported by 26 columns—a remarkable three-aisled hall originally used for food storage and later as the “Herrenkeller” wine depot. In modern times, this cellar has been transformed into a restaurant and microbrewery, where visitors can experience Franconian cuisine amid historic surroundings (de.wikipedia.org; ADAC Maps).

Visitor Information

Location and Accessibility

The Mauthalle is centrally located at Hallplatz 2, between Königstraße and Pfannenschmiedsgasse in Nuremberg’s Old Town. It is easily accessible on foot from major landmarks such as Hauptmarkt and the Pegnitz River, and is well-served by public transport. The ground floor and surrounding area are wheelchair accessible, though access to the vaulted cellar involves stairs—visitors with mobility concerns should contact the venue in advance for assistance (Komoot; Evendo).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Exterior Access: The Mauthalle’s exterior is accessible at all times.
Cellar Restaurant (Barfüßer): Open daily from late morning to late evening; check the Barfüßer website for current hours.
Ticketing: No tickets or admission fees are required to view the exterior or enter the cellar restaurant. The upper floors are not open to the public. Guided tours or special events may have separate ticket requirements, typically priced between €5 and €10 (tourismus.nuernberg.de; Stadtportal Nürnberg).

Guided Tours and Events

Regular guided tours of the Mauthalle are not offered, but the site is included in many city walking tours. During special events and festivals, such as Christmas markets and open-air concerts, the Mauthalle serves as a vibrant backdrop. For up-to-date information on events and tours, consult the official Nuremberg Tourism site.

Amenities and Dining

Dining: The Barfüßer restaurant and microbrewery in the vaulted cellar offers traditional Franconian fare and locally brewed beer. Reservations are recommended during peak times (ADAC Maps).
Restrooms: Available for restaurant patrons.
Nearby Amenities: The surrounding Königstraße area features numerous cafés, bakeries, shops, and accommodation options.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Photography: The east gable’s intricate Gothic details make for excellent photos, especially in the evening light.
Getting There: The site is easily reached by foot from Nuremberg Central Station or by tram/bus to the Hallplatz area.
Nearby Sites: Explore St. Lorenz Church, Germanisches Nationalmuseum, Albrecht Dürer House, Hauptmarkt, and the Lorenzer Altstadt district, all within walking distance (Komoot; ADAC Maps).
Weather: Summers are warm and ideal for outdoor tours; winters are festive with famous markets—dress accordingly.

FAQ: Essential Visitor Questions

Q: Are tickets needed to visit the Mauthalle?
A: No tickets are required for the exterior or cellar restaurant. Guided tours or special events may require a fee.

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The exterior is accessible at all times. The Barfüßer restaurant is open daily from late morning to late evening; check their website for up-to-date hours.

Q: Is the Mauthalle wheelchair accessible?
A: The ground floor and surrounding area are accessible. Access to the cellar requires stairs; contact the venue for assistance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: The Mauthalle is included in many Old Town walking tours. Inquire with official tourism offices or tour providers.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, photography is allowed for the exterior and in the restaurant; please respect other guests.

Q: What amenities are nearby?
A: Numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops are located along Königstraße and in the adjacent Old Town.

Summary and Final Tips

Mauthalle is an essential stop on any Nuremberg itinerary, seamlessly blending architectural splendor, historical significance, and vibrant urban life. From its origins as a granary securing the city’s food supply to its modern role as a cultural and culinary hub, the Mauthalle stands as a symbol of Nuremberg’s enduring spirit. Free exterior access, unique dining experiences in the vaulted cellar, and proximity to other major sites make the Mauthalle an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s rich heritage. For the latest information on opening hours, tours, and events, consult the official city portal or tourist information. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for self-guided audio tours, and follow local tourism platforms for updates and tips.