Attraction Guide: Fuggerei, Augsburg, Germany

Fuggerei Guide

A City Within a City: Explore the Historic Fuggerei Guide

Discover the Fuggerei, the world's oldest social housing complex still in use. Founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger the Rich, this unique enclave provides affordable housing for Catholic residents of Augsburg who have fallen on hard times. Stepping through its gates is like entering a different world, a testament to the enduring power of philanthropy and social responsibility. The Fuggerei was established by Jakob Fugger, a wealthy merchant and banker, as a way to provide dignified housing for the poor. The complex consists of 140 apartments, a church, and a central square. Residents pay a symbolic rent of 0.88 euros per year (equivalent to one Rhenish guilder, the value at the time of its founding) and are expected to pray daily for the Fugger family. The Fuggerei has survived wars, economic hardship, and social change, remaining a symbol of hope and stability for over 500 years. Visitors can explore the Fuggerei's charming streets and courtyards, admire the well-preserved architecture, and learn about the history of this remarkable institution. The Fuggerei Museum provides insights into the lives of its residents and the Fugger family's legacy. A model apartment is open to the public, showcasing the living conditions of the Fuggerei's inhabitants. Don't miss the bunker from World War II, which now serves as a museum exhibit.