Rathaus

Harz Mountains


Wernigerode's spectacular towered Rathaus (town hall) began life as a theatre around 1277, only to be given its mostly late-Gothic features, which loom over the town square, in the 16th century. The artisan who carved its 33 wooden figures is said to have fallen foul of the authorities. If you peer closely you can see a few of his mocking touches (hint: look for the positioning of the hands).