photo credit: Birgit Böllinger from pixabay –
The Fuggerei in Augsburg, Germany, is the world’s oldest social housing complex, established in 1521 by Jakob Fugger, known as “Jakob Fugger the Rich.” The enclave includes 67 buildings, 142 residences, and a church, all enclosed by its own walls. It remains a significant symbol of the Fugger family’s commitment to social welfare.
A key feature of the Fuggerei is its incredibly affordable rent. Residents pay just €0.88 annually, a fee that has remained unchanged since its founding. This amount corresponds to one Rhenish gulden, and it highlights the Fuggerei’s role as a particular form of social housing. To qualify for residency, applicants must have lived in Augsburg for at least two years, be of Catholic faith, and be in need without any debts. In exchange for the low rent, tenants are required to pray three daily prayers for the souls of the Fugger family, preserving a tradition tied to the foundation of the complex.
The Fuggerei is also known for its distinctive architectural layout. The complex consists of apartments ranging in size from 45 to 65 square meters. Each unit has its own street entrance, making the apartments feel like houses rather than mere tenements. Ground-floor apartments feature small gardens, while upper-floor units include attics. Modern amenities such as running water and television are available, blending the historic structure with present-day comforts.
Despite suffering damage during World War II bombings, the Fuggerei was restored to its original style.
Today, it functions ss a residential area but also as a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore a museum, a display residence, and even a World War II bunker, though there is an entrance fee for these tours.
