Weißgerbergasse

Weißgerbergasse is one of the best-preserved ensembles of historic buildings in Nuremberg's Old Town. It lies in the Sebald side of the city, north of the Pegnitz River, and runs from Maxplatz toward St. Sebald Church and Weinmarkt. The name comes from the white tanners (Weißgerber) who settled here in the Middle Ages and processed raw animal hides into pale leather. Because this trade required a great deal of water and produced strong odors, the workshops were located at the edge of town near the river, and most of the houses had their own wells. About twenty medieval half-timbered houses survived the heavy air raids of World War II, so today the lane offers an authentic picture of an old artisans' quarter within the castle district.

The historic fabric was preserved thanks to the commitment of the Nürnberger Altstadtfreunde (Friends of the Old Town) and the property owners. In the 1970s, the Altstadtfreunde helped uncover the half-timbering that had been hidden under plaster and renovate the facades, which turned the street into a tourist attraction. The association later acquired additional properties, including the historic tanner's house at number 10, which was restored as the Erich-Mulzer-Haus, as well as the corner building on Irrerstraße. Architectural highlights include the so-called Chörlein, small oriel windows on the house facades that softened the strict appearance of the street and were used to watch the goings-on below. You will also spot typical craftsmen's signs on the facades, such as the white tanners' emblem from 1708 or a locksmith's sign.

Today, Weißgerbergasse is a pedestrian zone lined with bars, restaurants, galleries, and small businesses. Unlike in earlier times, when exhaust fumes and odors polluted the air, it is now connected to the sewer system and has a pleasant atmosphere. You can explore the picturesque courtyards with their historic galleries and wells, although some inner courtyards and a Baroque garden hall are only open on organized tours or on Open Monument Day. The lane is part of Nuremberg's Historic Mile and is easy to reach by public transportation.