Frankfurt

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History and Heritage

An introduction to Frankfurt’s historical landmarks, heritage sites, and its role in Germany’s history.

Sections

Frankfurt, Germany: Cultural and Social Life – History and Heritage

Frankfurt am Main, often referred to simply as Frankfurt, is a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with its modern status as a global financial hub. Known for its striking skyline, the city also boasts a deep cultural and historical legacy that is reflected in its landmarks, museums, and traditions. Below is a comprehensive guide to exploring Frankfurt’s history and heritage, with practical details to help you plan your visit.

Key Historical Landmarks

1. Römerberg (Old Town Square)

  • Overview: Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt, featuring half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Römer, a medieval building that has served as Frankfurt’s city hall since 1405. The square was a hub for trade fairs in the Middle Ages and remains a focal point for cultural events, including the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: Free to explore the square; guided tours may have fees (around €10–€15 per person).
    • Opening Hours: Open 24/7; best visited during daylight hours or during events.
    • Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, though cobblestone streets may pose challenges.
    • Tips: Visit during December for the Christmas Market or in summer for open-air events.

2. Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus)

  • Overview: This Gothic-style cathedral played a significant role in German history as the site of Holy Roman Empire coronations. Its 95-meter tower offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: Free for general entry; €3–€5 for tower access.
    • Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, 1:15 PM–8:00 PM; Sunday: 1:00 PM–8:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: The main cathedral is wheelchair accessible, but the tower is not.
    • Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially if climbing the tower.

3. St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche)

  • Overview: A symbol of German democracy, this church hosted the first freely elected German parliament in 1848. Today, it serves as a venue for exhibitions and events.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: Free.
    • Opening Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Tips: Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Römerberg area.

4. Goethe House and Museum

  • Overview: The birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Germany’s most famous writer, this museum offers a glimpse into 18th-century life and Goethe’s early years.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: €7 for adults; €3 for students; free for children under 6.
    • Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:30 PM.
    • Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to narrow staircases.
    • Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, and consider purchasing a combination ticket with other museums.

Museums and Cultural Sites

Frankfurt is home to the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), a cluster of world-class museums along the Main River. Here are some highlights:

1. Städel Museum

  • Overview: One of Germany’s most important art museums, the Städel features works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including pieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: €16 for adults; €14 for reduced tickets; free for children under 12.
    • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Wednesday and Thursday: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Tips: Download the museum’s app for a self-guided tour.

2. German Film Museum (Deutsches Filmmuseum)

  • Overview: This museum explores the history of cinema, with interactive exhibits and screenings of classic films.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: €8 for adults; €6 for reduced tickets; free for children under 6.
    • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Tips: Check the schedule for special film screenings.

3. Historical Museum Frankfurt (Historisches Museum Frankfurt)

  • Overview: This museum chronicles Frankfurt’s history from its early days to its modern development, with exhibits on trade, culture, and daily life.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: €10 for adults; €5 for reduced tickets; free for children under 18.
    • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Tips: Don’t miss the scale model of Frankfurt’s Old Town before World War II.

4. Jewish Museum Frankfurt

  • Overview: This museum highlights the history and culture of Frankfurt’s Jewish community, one of the oldest in Europe.
  • Practical Details:
    • Entry Fee: €10 for adults; €5 for reduced tickets; free for children under 18.
    • Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Wednesday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.
    • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible.
    • Tips: Visit the annex at the Börneplatz Memorial for a deeper understanding of Jewish life in Frankfurt.

Cultural Events and Traditions

1. Frankfurt Christmas Market

  • Overview: One of Germany’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets, held annually in Römerberg and St. Paul’s Square.
  • Dates: Late November to December 22.
  • Entry Fee: Free to enter; food and gifts are individually priced.
  • Tips: Try local specialties like hot apple wine (Apfelwein) and Bethmännchen marzipan cookies.

2. Museumsuferfest

  • Overview: A cultural festival held every August along the Museum Embankment, featuring art, music, and food.
  • Entry Fee: Free; some activities may have fees.
  • Tips: Purchase a festival button (€7–€10) for access to participating museums.

3. Apple Wine Culture

  • Overview: Apfelwein (apple wine) is a local specialty. Visit a traditional apple wine tavern in the Sachsenhausen district to experience this cultural staple.
  • Tips: Pair your Apfelwein with Handkäse mit Musik, a tangy cheese dish.

Practical Tips for Visitors

  1. Frankfurt Card: Purchase the Frankfurt Card (€11–€16) for unlimited public transport and discounts on museum entry fees.
  2. Language: While German is the primary language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  3. Public Transport: Frankfurt’s public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses) is efficient and accessible. A day ticket costs around €5.60.
  4. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  5. Local Etiquette: Greet people with a handshake, and always say “Guten Tag” (Good day) or “Hallo” (Hello). Tipping 5–10% in restaurants is customary.

Frankfurt’s rich history and vibrant cultural life make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike. With its well-preserved landmarks, world-class museums, and lively traditions, the city offers a perfect blend of the past and present.