Noördlingen,  is situated in the centre of an area named the "Ries". Now known as part of the Romantic Road. The "Ries" was created about 14 million years ago when the area was hit by a meteorite. 

The old part of Nördlingen is a walled town. The circular wall (2.6km round) and has five gates were built in the 14th century. It is possible to walk around the complete length of the walls and ramparts. 

There are several museums in the old town, including the Rieskrater Museum. Here a  highlight is information about the meteor and information about  where the American astronauts trained for their moon walk. You will also find rocks from the moon. 

In the centre of the townyou will find a church a very  high steeple called "Daniel". This is a watchtower. A person still lives high up in the steeple. There is always someone there, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. By tradition he calls out the following words every day:" So that`s how it is, comrade, I see." The call commemorates an event from the year 1440, when Earl Hans of Oettingen tried to attack the town.