Stadt Memmingen: History and Stories

History and Stories

Memmingen began as a small settlement during the late Roman period and grew into an independent Imperial town. It is now an urban treasure trove in the Swabian-Bavarian lowlands of the Alps. The right to hold market and carry a coat of arms allowed the burghers of Memmingen to gain substantial influence during the late middle ages and up to the threshold of the modern age. In the early 16th century, great civic confidence led Memmingen to become a centre of the Reformation. The first European declaration of human rights was formulated here around the same time, known as the "12 Peasant Articles". Ancient architectural masterpieces continue to pay witness to this important medieval trading centre's economic and cultural heyday.

This period of prosperity ended with the 30-Year War. For 200 years Memmingen slowly declined in importance. Memmingen lost its status as an Imperial town early in the 19th century, when it was annexed by Bavaria.

Fifty years later, Memmingen's citizens again took their fate into their own hands and financed the construction of a railway. Thus forging a new perspective for the town's future.