Most Famous Corner in Town

Rothenburg, Germany-

Tucked within the medieval walls of Rothenburg is the most famous and most photographed corner in town known as „Plönlein“. The name translates simply to „small place“. Everyone who visits seems to take their picture in front of it. And this crooked old building claims to have inspired scenes in the the Disney movie Pinocchio, although I personally haven't seen much resemblance.

The weather has been steamy and hot this summer and when Rudi and I walked down to the „Plönlein“ early this morning, we noticed an open window. No chance of any air-conditioning in this old house. The thick stone walls do their best to keep out the summer heat, but only for so long.

Built in the middle-ages, the „Plönlein“ stands at the crossroads of Unterschmiedgasse and Kobelzellerweg which leads steeply down into the Tauber River Valley. The old tower on the left side is Siebersturm, built in 1385. The Kobelzeller tower on the right side dates back to 1360.

Seven-hundred years ago, the house was used for water regulation in the medieval town. Over the centuries many changes have been made but there is still a large stone well in front of it with a date of 1631 etched into the side.

We took advantage of the lack of crowds today and Rudi posed proudly on top of an old barrel, just as if he was a tourist.

Thanks to its postcard-perfect look, Plönlein has become the unofficial symbol of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.