Fuggerei

Jakob Fugger, a name synonymous with wealth and generosity, established the Fuggerei in Augsburg. This isn’t just any housing complex. It’s the world’s oldest social housing project, still thriving after over 500 years. Imagine strolling through a walled enclave, a city within a city. The Fuggerei’s yellow houses line cobblestone streets, each with its own unique doorknob. These intricate shapes served a purpose before streetlights, allowing residents to find their homes in the dark by touch. The Fuggerei was founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger the Younger, also known as “Jakob the Rich”. He envisioned a place where Augsburg’s needy citizens could find affordable housing. By 1523, 52 houses stood within the Fuggerei’s walls. Over time, streets, squares, and even St. Mark’s Church were added. The Fuggerei became a self-contained community, its gates locked each night, much like a medieval town. The cost of living in the Fuggerei? One Rhenish gulden per year, equivalent to a mere 0.88 euros today. This remarkably low rent has remained unchanged for centuries. There are a few conditions, however. Residents must be Catholic, have lived in Augsburg for at least two years, and be indigent without debt. They are also asked to say three daily prayers for the Fugger family. Step inside one of the Fuggerei’s apartments, ranging from 45 to 65 square meters. Each apartment simulates a small house, with its own street entrance. Inside, you’ll find a kitchen, parlor, bedroom, and a tiny spare room. Ground-floor apartments boast small gardens and sheds, while upper-floor apartments have attics. Modern conveniences like running water and television are also present. The Fuggerei is not frozen in time. It has evolved, enduring significant damage during World War II bombings. It was meticulously rebuilt, preserving its original charm. A bunker built in 1943 for the residents’ safety now serves as a museum, documenting the Fuggerei’s wartime experience. The Fuggerei’s legacy continues, supported by a charitable trust established by Jakob Fugger in 1520. The trust, with its initial deposit of 10,000 guilders, ensures the Fuggerei’s upkeep. Even Mozart’s great-grandfather, Franz Mozart, once called the Fuggerei home, living there between 1681 and 1694. The Fuggerei is a testament to the enduring power of compassion and foresight. It stands as a unique blend of history, community, and social responsibility, offering a glimpse into a world where affordable housing and a sense of belonging intertwine.