The imperial castle is a visual testimony to the cities historic past that can be seen from afar. The observer can relive the golden age from the 14th to 16th centuries in the buildings and artwork of the former free imperial city of Nuremberg.
The five kilometres long city wall, built in the 14th and 15th centuries is evidence of Nuremberg's importance and provides, even today an impressive setting for the Old Town. The artistic impact of Albrecht Dürer, Veit Stoß, Peter Vischer and many other artists together with the patronage of wealthy patrician families still characterize present day Nuremberg. The Industrial Age, the Wilhelminian and Art Nouveau styles can be seen in the buildings and industrial monuments as can the names of major German companies that were founded in the city and are still successful today. But wealth also invites abuse. It’s great past made Nuremberg the model German city of National Socialism. The National Socialist Party Rallies and Race Laws are just as indelibly linked with the city of Nuremberg just as the Nuremberg Trials against the major war criminals of the NS regime, marking the beginning of international criminal jurisdiction. Dealing with this legacy responsibly and openly has become the task of the city and its citizens. Nuremberg's exemplary commitment towards a city of peace and human rights has been recognized throughout the world.
