Trade with linen and fustian made this “free imperial city” rich during the 14th century. Situated at the crossroad of two long distance trade roads, Ravensburg was prospering during that period. Splendid buildings built in this period still characterize this town in our days.

The rise of Ravensburg already began during the 11th century since it very early had gained market rights and because it also was the ancestral seat of the Guelphs. During the 13th century commercial relations of the town and of a certain businessman named Humpi were excellent and reached as far as to Spain in the south and the Netherlands in the north. Ravensburg was one of the first German towns to produce paper. The town’s wealth lasted until the Thirty Years War. But even today Ravensburg, famous for its “games industry”, has a low unemployment rate and a high living ambience. Geographical nearness to the Alps and Lake Constance make Ravensburg, the centre of Upper Swabia, even more attractive.

The Old Town with winding lanes, big squares, old towers, gates and buildings is especially worth seeing. Its towers were built during the 14th and 15th century. Still today the so called Upper Gate, Schellenberger Tower, Women's Gate and the Green Tower dominate the unique cityscape. Visitors who make the effort and climb up one of these towers will enjoy an outstanding view of the town and its surroundings.

In the Museum Quarter is found the Museum of Humpis-Quarter which is one of the best preserved late-medieval residential accommodations in South Germany. In around 60 rooms you can go on an exciting time trip back to the 11th century.

The name Ravensburger is today well known far beyond Germany’s borders for its brand of board games of the same name. The museum of Ravensburger lies in the midst of the Old Town and offers an interactive insight into the enterprise’s world of games.

The Economy Museum of Ravensburg provides interesting information on developments of the local economy during past 200 years.

The Art Museum of Ravensburg presents on 900 square metres exhibition space works of German expressionists, classical modern and contemporary artists.

The city centre offers great shopping possibilities. Furthermore, Saturdays a market is held in Old Town.

For further information: http://www.ravensburg.de/