Haus zum Römer

The Haus zum Römer is the town hall in Frankfurt, featuring Gothic architecture with a half-timbered facade, stepped gables, and ornate details across its facade. The building complex links nine separate houses through interior courtyards and contains spaces for administration and ceremonial gatherings.

The Frankfurt city council purchased this building from the Römer family in 1405 and made it the seat of city government. For more than 600 years, it served as the center of power and shaped the political life of Frankfurt.

The name comes from the Römer merchant family who once owned the building, shaping its identity through generations. Inside, the Kaisersaal displays portraits of Holy Roman Empire rulers that reflect the political history people learned about in this place.

Visitors can explore the building on guided tours available Monday through Saturday, with options in multiple languages when booked in advance. Wear comfortable shoes since there are many rooms and stairs to navigate throughout the complex.

The building is made up of nine connected houses woven together by six inner courtyards, forming a maze-like layout of historical rooms. This unusual structure grew over time as neighboring buildings were added to the original purchase, creating a complex puzzle of spaces and connections.