Lauf an der Pegnitz

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We had a nice half day in Happurg and walked around the main lake. At time, many people spent time under the sun, on water spots and romantic time there. As the key dining place at the mid of the lake was full, we headed to a charming little town, Lauf an der Pegnitz, for changing scene and a fabulous little treat to continue the other half day.


Lauf an der Pegnitz (Northern Bavarian: Lauf an da Pegnitz) is a town to the East of Nuremberg, Germany. It is the capital of the district of Nürnberger Land, in Bavaria. The quiet beautiful town is in the valley of the River Pegnitz, which forms part of the town's name to differentiate from another Lauf.


The town centre is not far away from the railway station. Where we got into the centre stands the magnificent Imperial Castle (Wenceslas Castle).  It is the former residence castle of Emperor Charles IV, the King of Bohemia. The reason Lauf was chosen by the emperor is due to its strategic location and between Nürnberg and Prague. The castle has been extensively renovated.  Two important rooms, the coat of arms hall and heraldic hall, can be visited as part of the city tour. Another two rooms (Kaisersaal and Wappensaal) are available for weddings. It is of special meaning for the local residents but too commercial for visitors.


A beautiful building stands in the middle of the historical market square. It is the old town hall (Rathaus). It was probably built in the 14th century but completely burned down after the Second Margrave War in 1553. Several additions, conversions were made. The ground floor was used for shops. Upstairs were used for city council meetings and festivities baptisms and weddings.  However, due to the lack of space, the civil services have moved out completely. The admirable building has changed for commercial usage. Feel free to sit at the back and have a sip of coffee or drinks.


Nearby is another historical architecture: Hersbrucker Tor.  It stands proudly at the corner of the Marktplatz and serves as a point to access different parts of the town. There are still other sightseeing points but we needed to have a quick treat and go home to meet my friend's mother.  When we visit Lauf again, we will see the Industrial Museum, Stadtarchiv, Felsenkeller (rock cellar), Johanniskirche, Die Reichel´sche Schleif, Judenturm, etc. 

Before we left the town, we had nice drinks (coffee and chocolate) and apple cheese cake at Ruff's Coffee Lounge. Yummy!


Location: 91207 Lauf an der Pegnitz, Germany

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