Welcome to the Fuggerei, the world’s oldest social housing complex, located in Augsburg, Bavaria (Germany).
This remarkable enclave is not just a historical curiosity—it is a living testament to the power of charity, community, and innovative social thinking.
Origins of the Fuggerei
The Fuggerei was founded in 1521 by Jakob Fugger the Younger, famously known as “Jakob Fugger the Rich.”
Fugger was a wealthy merchant whose fortune stemmed from weaving, silver mining, and financing ventures.
His philanthropy led him to establish this housing project for Augsburg’s impoverished Catholic citizens. At a time when poverty often meant separation for families—children sent to orphanages and parents to workhouses—Fugger envisioned a place where struggling families could stay together and rebuild their lives.
A Medieval Town Within a City
The Fuggerei is more than just housing; it resembles a small medieval town.
Enclosed by walls, it features streets, squares, gardens, and even St. Mark’s Church.
Its gates are locked every night at 10 PM, preserving its unique identity as a self-contained community.
The architecture reflects simplicity and functionality.
Each of the 140 apartments measures between 45 and 65 square meters (500–700 square feet) and includes modern amenities like running water and television.
Residents enjoy private entrances and small gardens or attics depending on their apartment’s location.
The Rent: A Symbol of Stability
Remarkably, the rent has remained fixed since 1521 at one Rhenish guilder per year—equivalent to €0.88 today.
This nominal fee underscores the estate’s charitable mission.
However, residents must meet specific conditions: they must be Catholic, indigent without debt, and have lived in Augsburg for at least two years.
In addition to paying rent, residents are required to pray three times daily for the Fugger family—a tradition that ties them to the estate’s founding principles.
Community Life in the Fuggerei
Life in the Fuggerei is defined by solidarity and mutual support. Residents contribute to the upkeep of the estate by performing part-time community jobs such as gardening or gatekeeping.
This fosters a sense of pride and belonging among them.
Today, the Fuggerei houses around 150 people from diverse backgrounds—elderly pensioners, young adults starting out, single parents, and middle-aged couples—all united by financial hardship and a shared commitment to community values.
Historical Significance
The Fuggerei has witnessed centuries of history.
During World War II, it was heavily damaged by bombings but later rebuilt in its original style. A bunker constructed during the war remains part of its legacy.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s great-grandfather once lived here—a fact commemorated with a stone plaque.
The estate’s resilience through time reflects its enduring relevance.
How It Is Funded
Jakob Fugger established a charitable trust in 1520 with an initial deposit of 10,000 guilders to fund the Fuggerei’s operations.
The trust has been carefully managed over centuries with income primarily derived from forestry holdings.
Despite modest annual returns (0.5%–2%), tourism has become an additional source of revenue.
Visitors pay €6.50 for tours—over seven times the annual rent—to explore this historic site.
Modern-Day Challenges and Opportunities
The Fuggerei continues to adapt while maintaining its original mission.
It receives around 30–40 applications annually but can only accommodate a fraction due to limited space.
The waiting list often exceeds 80 applicants.
Social workers play an integral role in supporting residents by mediating disputes and assisting with bureaucratic tasks like health insurance claims.
This ensures residents can live independently despite financial difficulties.
Why Visit the Fuggerei?
For tourists, the Fuggerei offers more than just historical insight—it’s an inspiring example of enduring charity and innovation in social housing.
Visitors can explore its museum apartment or learn about its unique doorbell designs that predate streetlights[^1].
Moreover, it stands as a reminder that even centuries-old ideas can remain relevant in addressing modern challenges like affordable housing.
Legacy of Jakob Fugger
Jakob Fugger’s vision was revolutionary for his time.
By creating a space where families could retain their privacy during financial hardship, he set a precedent for compassionate urban planning.
His legacy lives on through both the residents who benefit from his generosity and the tourists who marvel at his foresight.
Conclusion
The Fuggerei is not just a relic; it is a living community that embodies resilience, charity, and innovation.
Its story serves as inspiration for addressing contemporary issues like housing affordability while preserving dignity and community values.
With rent fixed at €0.88 per year for over five centuries, this Bavarian treasure proves that some ideas are truly timeless.