History of Aschaffenburg

Its first settlement dates back to the Stone Age and was founded in its present form in the fifth century by the Alemanni. However, Aschaffenburg did not receive its town charter until – or as early as – around 800 years ago.

Because the town between the rivers Aschaff and Main was declared a fortress to hold to the end during World War II, many of the historic buildings were nearly destroyed, though the St. Peter and Alexander Church, built in 975, was among those preserved.

Aschaffenburg as the second largest city in Lower Franconia and gateway to the Spessart even once belonged to Sweden for three years (1631 – 34). According to a legend, the then King of Sweden wanted to destroy Johannisburg Castle, built in 1619, because he could not take it with him. On a hint from the Capuchins that he should roll it there – meaning the numerous wheels carved in the windows, which today are part of Aschaffenburg’s city emblem – he had to laugh so much that he refrained from destroying it.

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