Freiburg Old Town: Medieval Gates, Cathedral & Historic Squares

Begin at the impressive Victory Monument, designed by sculptor Karl Friedrich Moest. Created following a public competition, the monument commemorates the German forces involved in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71 and provides an introduction to Freiburg’s place in modern German history.

Continue past the striking House of the Whale, an outstanding example of late-Gothic civic architecture. Forming part of a historic building complex, its distinctive red façade and ornate details have made it one of Freiburg’s most recognisable residences. The building also gained cinematic fame as a filming location for the 1977 horror film Suspiria.

Admire Freiburg’s Renaissance-style Old Town Hall, distinguished by its colourful façade and decorative artwork. After suffering extensive damage during the bombing of 1944, the building was carefully reconstructed and expanded. A connecting bridge links it with the neighbouring New Town Hall.

Behind the Old Town Hall stands the Gerichtslaube, one of Freiburg’s oldest surviving civic buildings. Dating from the late Middle Ages, it once served important judicial and administrative functions and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s early system of government.

Founded in 1457, the university originally operated across several buildings in the historic centre. Parts of the complex continue to reflect the city’s enduring reputation as an important centre of education and research.

Marvel at Freiburg Cathedral, the city’s defining landmark and a masterpiece shaped by both Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Construction began around 1200 and continued for approximately three centuries. The cathedral survived the devastating air raids of 1944 and contains important works of art, including altarpieces associated with Hans Baldung Grien and Hans Holbein the Younger.

Near the cathedral, admire the Historical Merchants’ Hall with its deep-red façade, colourful coats of arms and distinctive arcades. Once a centre for trade and customs administration, the building reflects Freiburg’s commercial importance during the medieval and early modern periods.

Pause at Bertold’s Fountain, a popular meeting point located where major tram lines and shopping streets converge. Its modern equestrian monument replaced an earlier fountain destroyed during the Second World War and commemorates the dukes of Zähringen, Freiburg’s founding dynasty.

Pass beneath the Martinstor, one of only two surviving medieval gateways from Freiburg’s original fortifications. Dating from the early 13th century, this imposing tower recalls the defensive walls that once enclosed and protected the historic town.

Over time, the building incorporated Gothic, Baroque and neo-Gothic elements. After being severely damaged in 1944, the church was reconstructed and remains an important feature of Freiburg’s Old Town.

Continue to the Adelhauser New Convent, created from the consolidation of four medieval Dominican convents. The present Baroque complex was constructed during the late 17th century and preserves the legacy of religious communities once associated with Christian mysticism and learning.

Conclude at the Schwabentor, Freiburg’s second surviving medieval city gate. Dating from the mid-13th century, its imposing tower, historic artwork and position at the edge of the Old Town provide a memorable final view of the city’s medieval heritage.