Römer, Medieval town hall in Altstadt, Germany

The Römer is Frankfurt's city hall, a complex of nine connected houses around six courtyards on Römerberg square. Its pink stone stepped-gable front has three levels: a central section with a clock, three tall arched windows and a small dark spire, and a right section topped by a curved dome with a gold cross. A row of carved stone figures on brackets runs below the upper windows, and three dark arched doorways open at ground level. A gilded statue on a tall pillar stands on the cobbled square in front.

The city of Frankfurt purchased the houses from a merchant family in 1405 and converted them into a municipal headquarters. During World War Two, the building suffered heavy damage and was reconstructed between 1950 and 1955.

The name Römer is explained in conflicting ways; the city bought the house from the Römer merchant family on 11 March 1405, so it does not come from an Italian family. The balcony added around 1900 serves as a stage for state visits and sporting events, such as honouring the 2003 Women's World Cup winners.

The main entrance faces the Römerberg; the complex also borders Limpurgergasse to the south and Buchgasse and Berliner Straße to the north, with Braubachstraße dividing the south and north wings. The eleven connected houses enclose six courtyards, and the interior is famously maze-like, so follow the signs. The Haus Löwenstein, which holds the wedding rooms, has an open stairwell.

The Imperial Hall on the first upper floor shows portraits of all 52 emperors of the Holy Roman Empire along the walls in chronological order. This collection was created in the 19th century and served as a reception room during official city occasions.