Henkerhaus Hangman's House
A unique museum in Nuremberg detailing the life of the city's executioner, set in a historic house on the Henkersteg bridge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Henkerhaus Hangman's House
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique museum in Nuremberg detailing the life of the city's executioner, set in a historic house on the Henkersteg bridge.
"A small but powerful museum that adds depth to the already atmospheric riverside quarter."
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow about 15-20 minutes to see everything. It's a small but impactful museum.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The entrance fee is modest (around 3 euros) and supports the museum's upkeep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Executioner's Residence
Inside the Henkerhaus
Step into the former home of Nuremberg's executioner, a unique glimpse into a life on society's fringe.
Views from the Henkersteg
Bridge outside the Henkerhaus
Enjoy striking medieval riverside views from the bridge, adding atmosphere to your visit.
Justice and Folklore Exhibits
Museum displays
Explore Nuremberg's history of justice, law enforcement, and the evolution of the executioner's role.
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Planning Your Visit
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow about 15-20 minutes to see everything. It's a small but impactful museum.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The entrance fee is modest (around 3 euros) and supports the museum's upkeep.
📸 Scenic River Views
Don't miss the beautiful views of the Pegnitz river and medieval houses from the bridge.
📚 Informative Exhibits
The museum offers rich information on the history of execution and the executioner's life.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow about 15-20 minutes to see everything. It's a small but impactful museum.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
The entrance fee is modest (around 3 euros) and supports the museum's upkeep.
📸 Scenic River Views
Don't miss the beautiful views of the Pegnitz river and medieval houses from the bridge.
📚 Informative Exhibits
The museum offers rich information on the history of execution and the executioner's life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Henkerhaus a unique and atmospheric museum, offering a concise look into the life of Nuremberg's executioner and the city's historical justice system. While small and quick to explore, its location on the Henkersteg bridge provides beautiful riverside views and a tangible connection to the past. Some note it's more about the setting and historical context than extensive exhibits.
"The Henkerhaus Museum brings to life one of the most unusual roles in Nuremberg’s history, that of the city executioner. Set in the former residence attached to the Henkerturm and Henkersteg, the museum traces how justice was carried out, how the executioner lived on the edge of society, and how public punishment shaped urban life. Exhibits cover everything from torture and law enforcement to later reinterpretations of the building as a site of folklore and tourism. Walking through its half-timbered rooms with views over the Pegnitz makes the experience even more striking, as the setting itself still feels bound to its medieval past. It’s a small but powerful museum that adds depth to the already atmospheric riverside quarter."
E Scott Parks
"A beautiful, nice rehabilitated building. In fact a house built on a bridge that spans over the Pegnitz river. That's the interesting part. On the other hand, inside is not much to see...only some written information about the executioner's history. You don't need more than 20 minutes to see all."
Paul Ciprian
"a small exhibition on the history of execution ordered by the law in the old Nuremberg state. rich informations, entrance 3 euros and you get the chance to see from both sides of the river some medieval renovated houses."
david antoun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Henkerhaus is located in Nuremberg's charming riverside quarter, easily accessible on foot from the city center. It's situated on the Henkersteg bridge over the Pegnitz River. Public transport options like trams and buses stop nearby, making it a convenient stop during your exploration of Nuremberg's historic areas.
Parking directly at the Henkerhaus is limited due to its location on a pedestrian bridge. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a nearby city center parking garage and walk to the museum. Several parking garages are available within a 10-15 minute walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, it's open during daytime hours on weekdays and weekends, but specific times should be confirmed.
The admission fee is quite affordable, typically around 3 euros per person. This small fee helps support the preservation and operation of this unique historical site.
For such a small museum, advance booking is usually not necessary. You can typically purchase tickets upon arrival. However, during peak tourist seasons, it's always a good idea to check if any special arrangements are in place.
The Henkerhaus is located in a historic building on a bridge, which may present some accessibility challenges. Visitors with mobility issues should inquire directly with the museum about specific access points and any potential limitations before their visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that a visit to the Henkerhaus takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes. It's a compact exhibition that provides a focused look at the executioner's history.
Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing the history of justice in Nuremberg, the life of the city's executioner, and related folklore. The museum is housed in the former residence of the executioner, offering a unique historical context.
Guided tours are not typically offered for the Henkerhaus itself due to its size. However, the information provided within the museum is comprehensive, and the setting itself tells a powerful story.
The Henkersteg is a historic bridge that spans the Pegnitz River. The Henkerhaus is built directly onto this bridge, making it a unique architectural feature and offering picturesque views of the surrounding medieval buildings.
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for any posted signs or inquire with museum staff regarding whether photography is permitted inside the exhibition rooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are from the Henkersteg bridge itself, capturing the Henkerhaus with the Pegnitz River and the charming medieval houses on either side. The views looking back towards the city from the bridge are also very picturesque.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, offering softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow on the historic buildings. Golden hour can create particularly stunning shots of the riverside.
While general photography on the bridge is usually permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Inside the museum, specific rules about photography should be observed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a story about a unique historical job and the importance of fairness. The short duration of the visit (around 15-20 minutes) makes it easy to fit into a family's itinerary without causing fatigue. Afterward, a walk along the Pegnitz River or a stop at a nearby playground can balance the historical learning with fun.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a free exploration of the surrounding medieval streets and the picturesque Henkersteg bridge. The beautiful riverside views are also a free attraction that enhances the experience. This allows you to immerse yourself in Nuremberg's history and charm without significant expense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Role of the Executioner in Nuremberg
The exhibits cover not only the executioner's duties but also how their role evolved over time and how the building itself became a site of both historical significance and later, folklore and tourism. The very structure of the house, built onto the Henkersteg bridge, speaks volumes about the executioner's position – connected to the city yet apart from it. Walking through these rooms provides a tangible link to the past, making the historical accounts more vivid and impactful.
This small museum is a powerful reminder of how justice was administered and how societal roles, even the most grim, shaped the fabric of medieval cities. It’s a poignant addition to any exploration of Nuremberg’s rich and complex history, offering a perspective that is both sobering and fascinating.
Exploring the Henkersteg and Riverside
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the Henkerhaus, the surrounding riverside area is a delightful place to explore. It’s a tranquil escape from the busier city squares, offering a more relaxed pace. You can wander along the Pegnitz, admire the historic buildings, and soak in the atmospheric ambiance of this less-trafficked part of Nuremberg. The area is particularly beautiful during the golden hour, when the light casts a warm glow on the ancient stone and timber structures.
This part of Nuremberg is ideal for a leisurely walk, offering a blend of historical discovery and scenic beauty. It’s a spot where you can truly feel the centuries of history that have shaped the city, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper connection with Nuremberg's past and its enduring charm.
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