The Gerberviertel (Tanners' Quarter) was, in its heyday around 1618, one of the largest tanning districts in Germany, with 152 master tanners operating in this sector.

Tanning techniques required intensive use of water, which led to the district being strategically established on the banks of the Eger River canal, guaranteeing direct access to the flow necessary for the process.

Each master tanner lived and worked in the same building, with workshops, tanning pools, and drying areas (Trockenböden) for the hides integrated into the residential structure.

The tanning trade persisted until the mid-20th century, and the last tannery closed in 1961, ending an era of traditional craft in the neighborhood.

Today, walking through the Gerberviertel means strolling along narrow streets with historic buildings that still display the wooden galleries formerly used to dry hides. It's a romantic and atmospheric experience.

One of the most notable buildings is the 16th-century Rotgerberhaus (Red Tanner's House), a four-story wooden residence with traditional drying galleries that stand out in the medieval setting.

There is also a modern Kneippanlage (hydrotherapy facility) on the Eger canal: a space open to the public for walking with your feet in the water, combining rest and health benefits according to the Sebastian Kneipp method.

The neighborhood is part of a historical walk of about 4km through Nördlingen, starting at the Tourist Information building, and passing by places like the Gerberviertel, museums and other medieval attractions.

Address

The main street is Mittlere Gerbergasse, and the Kneipp facility is on Lederergasse.