Fuggerei
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This street, the Herrengasse, is the main alleyway of the Fuggerei housing complex. Just as you enter, the building to your left is the local church: St Markus Kirche. The church is a simple building with minimal decorations inside. It is regularly used by the residents of the community and is open to visitors as well.
As you exit the church, there is a hand-pump well located to your left where the church building finishes. This is a typical Fuggerei hand-pump which the residents use to collect water for daily use. A number of such pumps are installed in different locations across the community.
Please continue walking down the street.
The Fuggerei is the oldest social housing system in the world, and has been continuously in use since it was first founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger. Initially the complex had 52 housing units. Later on 15 more houses were added to accommodate more needy citizens. During World War II, a bunker was also constructed for the residents to protect them during bombing raids.
After the war the Fuggerei underwent extensive renovations to return it to its original style. A museum was also added and arrangements were made for tourists and visitors. However, the rent of the houses and requirements to be allotted a house remain the same as they were 500 years ago. Residents pay the equivalent of One Rheinischer Gulden per year, which is about 0.88 euros.
Despite their medieval look, the houses are equipped with all modern facilities. Ground floor apartments have a small garden and the upper apartments have access to the attic.
Please keep in mind that the houses are occupied and private. If you’re interested in seeing the interior of the houses, there is a model apartment for tourists which we will visit shortly.
As you exit the church, there is a hand-pump well located to your left where the church building finishes. This is a typical Fuggerei hand-pump which the residents use to collect water for daily use. A number of such pumps are installed in different locations across the community.
Please continue walking down the street.
The Fuggerei is the oldest social housing system in the world, and has been continuously in use since it was first founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger. Initially the complex had 52 housing units. Later on 15 more houses were added to accommodate more needy citizens. During World War II, a bunker was also constructed for the residents to protect them during bombing raids.
After the war the Fuggerei underwent extensive renovations to return it to its original style. A museum was also added and arrangements were made for tourists and visitors. However, the rent of the houses and requirements to be allotted a house remain the same as they were 500 years ago. Residents pay the equivalent of One Rheinischer Gulden per year, which is about 0.88 euros.
Despite their medieval look, the houses are equipped with all modern facilities. Ground floor apartments have a small garden and the upper apartments have access to the attic.
Please keep in mind that the houses are occupied and private. If you’re interested in seeing the interior of the houses, there is a model apartment for tourists which we will visit shortly.
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