In the Middle Ages, the Nuremberg castle was one of the most important imperial castles of the Holy Roman Empire. The huge complex was built by the Hohenstaufens and their successors over the remains of previous buildings from the time of the Salians.

The double Imperial Chapel is one of the oldest remaining parts of the castle complex (c. 1200). Some of the imperial residential and state rooms in the Palas have late medieval and Renaissance panelling.

The exhibition in the castle was redesigned in 2013. The new concept shows not only clear explanations of the elements and function of the castle in their historical context, but also presents information about the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation and the role of Nuremberg in the late Middle Ages in a vivid and exciting form that will appeal to visitors of all ages.

The Deep Well, which was the castle’s most important source of water in times of siege, is a particularly famous feature. Although the first documented mention of the well dates from the 14th century, it is probably as old as the Imperial Castle itself.

The defensive tower in the bailey of the Imperial Castle, the Sinwell Tower, was built in the 13th century and there is a splendid view from the top of the old part of Nuremberg.