Goldener Saal: A Renaissance Masterpiece

Experience the splendor of the German Renaissance in Augsburg's Goldener Saal, a meticulously restored hall adorned with gold leaf, murals, and historical significance.

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Goldener Saal

The Goldener Saal (Golden Hall) in Augsburg's Town Hall is a breathtaking example of German Renaissance architecture. Built between 1615 and 1624 by Elias Holl, the city's master builder, it is renowned for its opulent gold-leaf decor, intricate ceiling paintings, and monumental murals. The hall served as the city's primary meeting and ceremonial space, showcasing Augsburg's wealth and power during its peak as a Free Imperial City. Though heavily damaged during World War II, meticulous restoration efforts have returned the Goldener Saal to its former glory, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur and artistic mastery of this historical landmark. Today, it stands as a testament to Augsburg's rich cultural heritage and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bavaria.

A brief summary to Goldener Saal

Rathausplatz 1, Augsburg, Augsburg-Innenstadt, 86150, DE
+498213242135
Visit website

Monday 10 am-6 pm
Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
Thursday 10 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-6 pm
Saturday 10 am-6 pm
Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

Check the Augsburg tourism website for current opening hours and tour schedules, as they may vary due to events or ongoing restoration work.
Allow ample time to explore the Rathaus and the surrounding Rathausplatz, as there are many other historical buildings and attractions in the immediate vicinity.
Consider joining a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and artistry of the Goldener Saal, as the guides provide valuable insights and anecdotes.
Photography is allowed, but flash photography may be restricted to protect the delicate artwork. Check with the staff for specific guidelines.
If visiting during the Rathaus renovation (August 2024 - Spring 2026), be sure to visit the interim exhibition in the entrance area to get a taste of the Goldener Saal's grandeur.

Getting There

Walking

The Goldener Saal is located in the Rathaus on Rathausplatz, in the heart of Augsburg's city center. From Königsplatz, a central transportation hub, walk east along Bahnhofstraße, then turn right onto Philippine-Welser-Straße. Continue onto Rathausplatz. The Rathaus will be directly ahead. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Note that Rathausplatz and the area immediately surrounding the Rathaus are pedestrian zones.
Public Transport

The closest tram stops are Rathausplatz and Augsburg Königsplatz. From Augsburg Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), take tram line 3, 4, 5 or 6 to Königsplatz, then follow the walking directions above. A single AVV zone ticket is required (€2.40) for travel within the city center. Alternatively, from Königsplatz, take tram line 1 or 2 to Rathausplatz. A single AVV zone ticket is required (€2.40) for travel within the city center.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop passengers off near Rathausplatz, but direct access to the square is restricted due to the pedestrian zone. A taxi from Augsburg Central Station to Rathausplatz will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic.
Driving

Driving directly to Rathausplatz is not possible due to the pedestrian zone. Several parking garages are located within a short walking distance, including Annahof, Augusta Parkgarage and City Galerie. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour or €15-€20 per day. Consider using the Park & Ride options outside the city center (e.g., P+R Plärrer) and taking public transport to avoid city center traffic and parking costs. Parking at P+R Plärrer is free, except during the Christkindlesmarkt and the two weeks before and three days after the Spring and Autumn Plärrer festivals.

Discover more about Goldener Saal

The Goldener Saal, located within Augsburg's impressive Town Hall (Augsburger Rathaus), is a dazzling testament to the city's historical significance and artistic prowess during the German Renaissance. Conceived as the centerpiece of the Rathaus, the Goldener Saal embodies the wealth, power, and cultural sophistication of Augsburg during its golden age as a Free Imperial City. The hall's construction was initiated in 1615 by Elias Holl, Augsburg's renowned Stadtbaumeister (master builder), as part of a larger project to replace the aging medieval town hall with a structure befitting the city's status. Holl, a prominent figure in Renaissance architecture, designed the Rathaus and the Goldener Saal in the late Renaissance style, incorporating innovative structural elements and lavish decorative schemes. The Goldener Saal's most striking feature is its elaborate gold-leaf ornamentation. The coffered ceiling, adorned with gilded carvings and intricate paintings, shimmers with reflected light, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled opulence. The walls are embellished with monumental murals depicting historical events, allegorical scenes, and portraits of emperors and dignitaries, all executed with meticulous detail and vibrant colors. These murals served to glorify Augsburg's history, celebrate its civic virtues, and underscore its loyalty to the Holy Roman Empire. The hall's design also incorporates impressive architectural elements, including massive doorways, towering windows, and a spacious layout that could accommodate large gatherings and ceremonial events. The double-height space, spanning 552 square meters with a ceiling reaching 14 meters, further enhances the sense of grandeur and importance. Throughout its history, the Goldener Saal has served as a venue for important political gatherings, imperial receptions, and festive celebrations. It was here that Augsburg's city council convened to make crucial decisions, foreign dignitaries were welcomed with pomp and circumstance, and citizens gathered to commemorate significant events. The hall was not merely a decorative space; it was a symbol of Augsburg's civic identity and a stage for its public life. Tragically, the Goldener Saal suffered extensive damage during World War II. In 1944, an Allied air raid struck the Rathaus, causing a fire that consumed much of the hall's interior. The gilded ceiling, the murals, and the intricate woodwork were all severely damaged or destroyed, leaving the Goldener Saal in ruins. Following the war, a painstaking restoration project was undertaken to revive the Goldener Saal. Skilled artisans and conservators worked for decades to reconstruct the hall's original features, using historical records, photographs, and surviving fragments as guides. The restoration efforts involved recreating the gilded ceiling, repainting the murals, and restoring the woodwork, all with the aim of preserving the hall's historical integrity and artistic value. The restored Goldener Saal was reopened to the public in 1996, marking a triumphant moment in Augsburg's history. Today, the hall stands as a symbol of the city's resilience, its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, and its enduring spirit of innovation and creativity. Visitors to the Goldener Saal can marvel at the hall's opulent decor, admire its intricate artwork, and learn about its rich history. The hall is open for guided tours, which provide insights into its architectural features, its artistic significance, and its role in Augsburg's past. The adjacent Fürstenzimmer (Prince's Rooms) further enhance the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the private chambers used by visiting dignitaries. The Goldener Saal is more than just a historical monument; it is a living testament to Augsburg's cultural identity and a source of pride for its citizens. It continues to serve as a venue for civic events, concerts, and exhibitions, ensuring that it remains an integral part of Augsburg's public life. Its beauty and historical significance draw tourists from around the world, solidifying its place as one of Bavaria's most treasured landmarks. While the Rathaus is undergoing extensive renovations from August 2024 to Spring 2026, a temporary exhibition in the entrance area offers a glimpse into the Golden Hall, ensuring that visitors can still appreciate its splendor during the restoration period. This exhibition features detailed panels, a miniature diorama, and a 3D animation, providing an immersive experience despite the hall's closure.

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Goldener Saal: A Renaissance Masterpiece

A brief summary to Goldener Saal

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Goldener Saal

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Goldener Saal

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Merkurbrunnen

Oberschönenfeld Abbey

Burgstall Schlösslesberg

Silbersteg

Blutenburg Castle

Harburg Castle

Nymphenburg Palace

Roggenburg Abbey

Schleissheim palace complex

Olympiapark München

Olympiaturm

Walk of Fame Olympic Park

BMW Museum

Wappenhaus

Pumucklbrunnen

Unmissable attractions to see

Augsburg Town Hall

Ratskeller Augsburg

Rathausplatz

St. Peter am Perlach

Augustusbrunnen

Maximilianstraße

Hans Jakob Fugger - Denkmal

Brechthaus

St. Moritz

St. Anne's Church

Fuggerhaus

Römisches Museum

Naturmuseum Augsburg

Augsburg Arsenal

Manzù-Brunnen

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Die Ecke - Augsburg

Das Wirtshaus unter dem Bogen

Altstadtgasthaus Bauerntanz

Riegele WirtsHaus

Restaurant Alte Liebe

Restaurant Bayerischer Löwe

Restaurant BCA

Restaurant Zum Bayern Kini

Berghof

Restaurant Wirtshaus Frau Huber

Restaurant Hirblinger Hof

Die Tafeldecker am Hopfengarten

Restaurant Deuringer Hof

Wirtshaus Strasser

Restaurant Gasthaus am Lohwald

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

IdeenReich

Pinu

LiNEA Lifestyle Wohnen - Augsburg

Nepal Shop

Gud är stor - Christlicher Online Shop

Elbenwald

City-Galerie

The Body Shop

EuroShop

Hawaii-Store

Action Augsburg

Mix-Shop & Postagentur

Mix-Shop - Geschenke und mehr... -

Blue Cottage

Depot

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

THE DRUNKEN MONKEY - Augsburg

Golden Glimmer Bar - Augsburg