Long nights and shorter, colder days: if you want to get the best out of a German tradition, then a visit to Rothenburg’s Reiterlesmarkt is a must during the Advent period. Every year, the medieval town of Rothenburg is transformed into a winter’s fairytale. As far back as the 15th century, Advent festivities have been accompanied by a wonderful Christmas market. This market can look back on over 500 years of living heritage that has hardly changed a lot since its historic origins.

To keep body and soul together, treat yourself to a glass of mulled wine, enjoy an original Rothenburg Snowball, or, if you have a heartier appetite, satisfy your hunger with a grilled sausage or roast chestnuts. Very suitable as a present, a gingerbread heart.

There are also numerous cultural events held to coincide with the Christmas market. However, the highlight of the market is the appearance of the figure of the “Rothenburger Reiterle” at the festive opening ceremony. Lending its name to the market, the tradition of the “Reiterle” is lost in the mists of time. The figure was believed to be an envoy from another world that floated through the ether with the souls of the deceased at winter time. The image of this mystical figure has changed over the years. In the old days people shuddered at the sight of this otherworldly character, now adults and children look forward to seeing him. The wild creature has been transformed into a friendly carrier of good news.