Found just south of the vibrant city of Nuremberg (Nürnberg), medieval Roth is famous for its castle and its character. Within the state of Bavaria and set close to one of the largest National Parks in the country, it has certainly got something to offer everyone who passes by.
The castle, Schloss Ratibor, was originally built as a grand hunting lodge and was commissioned by the Margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach in the 16th century. When they moved out of power, it was left to Ludwig III of Bavaria many years later to refurbish it — and he did so with great splendor and an interesting mixture of styles!
The building is still a splendid sight today, but now has some very different uses. It houses the town’s museum, a busy restaurant, the local library, and a large number of crowded council offices. You can still take a walk around inside its walls — but you can only visit one part at a time!
Roth is also in an area known to locals as Franconia — the ancient lands of the Franks who are one of the oldest groups of Germanic peoples still living in the country today. Franks see themselves as a “breed apart” from those residing in Upper Bavaria (to the south), and uphold many historic and lively festivals and traditions that keep the area rich in culture and events.
It is less visited than other areas in this very scenic southern state. You can virtually have the place to yourself on a trip here, and it will make your trip seem more unique. However, the knock-on effects of the many big shows and fairs in nearby Nuremberg can see an increase in traffic and pedestrians — particularly for the Toy Fair in Spring when rooms in the city itself are rare.
Roth holds many shows and fairs of its own, including an annual Jazz & Blues Festival as well as hosting an exhausting Quelle Challenge Triathalon — two of many local attractions. Although, people generally come to this region for the exceptional wine — and to relax while drinking it!
