The carillon at Munich City Hall ensures that people pause for twelve minutes several times a day on the otherwise bustling square. The spectacle is particularly popular with tourists, especially when the knights engage in their tournament and the coopers begin to dance. But Munich isn’t the only city with a special carillon. The town hall in Fürth, Franconia, is the city’s landmark not only because of its architecture, but also because of the rock anthem that has been played here daily for nearly 20 years.
A Piece of Florence in Franconia
Fürth remained largely intact during World War II, which is why it boasts a well-preserved old town. It is one of the cities with the highest density of historic monuments in relation to its population. The cityscape is characterized by historicism, which blends architectural styles across several eras. The town hall, with its 55-meter-high tower reminiscent of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence , is considered the landmark of Fürth. It is the tallest building in the city center.
The town hall was built between 1840 and 1844 according to plans by Georg Friedrich Christian Bürklein. The tower was erected following the first phase of construction, and its battlements give it a medieval appearance . Since 2007, it has housed a carillon with 25 bells that begins playing Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” every day at 12:04 p.m. The time was chosen to coincide with the ringing of the church bells at noon.
Inside, Fürth City Hall features impressive ceiling paintings and a grand staircase. On a guided tour of the city hall, you can explore it for yourself and climb the tower. From here, you’ll have a magnificent view of the city and the two rivers, the Rednitz and the Pegnitz.
Fürth, City of Monuments
There is much more to see in Fürth than just the town hall. Be sure to stroll down Gustavstraße during your visit, where pubs and cafés line the street, inviting you to stop in. It is named after the Swedish King Gustav Adolf, who is said to have dined here at the Grüner Baum. Right next to it, you’ll find the Grüner Markt , surrounded by classic half-timbered houses, with the Gauklerbrunnen fountain serving as a centerpiece. The Baroque theater and St. Michael’s Church are other sights you shouldn’t miss. The latter hosts Bavaria’s largest street church festival every year.
If you’re craving a bit of nature now and then, your best bet is to take a detour to the city park. In summer, the roses bloom here and the Fountain Courtyard captivates visitors with its water feature. Or you can stroll along the riverside promenade by the Rednitz and let your gaze wander over the water. Find your happiness in Fürth, the “Cloverleaf City,” which even features this symbol of good luck in its coat of arms.
