Römerberg
The Römerberg, or Roman Hill, is on the left side. For centuries, it has been the prestigious square in Frankfurt. The Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen, meaning Fountain of Justice, occupies the centre of the square, which was built in 1543 as a symbol of the market right and was often renovated. Since 1887, the bronze “Justitia” has graced the fountain with sword and scales. The famous Christmas market is also held on the Römerberg in front of the reconstructed half-timbered houses.
The Römer
The Römer, the oldest town hall in the city and the headquarters of the magistrate today, is a group of eleven townhouses on the west side of the Römerberg. The three gothic crow gable houses “Zum Römer”, “Alt-Limpurg” and “Löwenstein”, which were converted to a town hall in 1405, are the centre and symbol of Frankfurt.
The word “Römer” figuratively refers to the town authorities. The first Kaisertreppe from 1405 now serves as the ceremonial stairs of the wedding hall of the registry office.
Paulskirche
The Paulskirche is on the right. It is an elliptical structure with classical forms. In 1848/49, the Frankfurt Parliament and the Frankfurt Assembly met in the Paulskirche. The Assembly was the first freely elected parliament in Germany.
A fire destroyed the interior of the Paulskirche in 1944 and this was restored again by 18 May 1948. The Paulskirche is a symbol of freedom and democracy and is no longer used as a church. Today, the Paulskirche is a venue for special occasions and awards, such as the awarding of the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade during the Frankfurt Book Fair.