Discover the Astonishingly Cheap Rent in Augsburg's Historic Fuggerei

Nestled in the picturesque city of Augsburg, Germany, lies a hidden gem that has astounded historians and social welfare advocates alike for centuries. Fuggerei, the oldest social housing complex in the world, offers an unparalleled living experience with an annual rent of just 0.88 euros (about $1). Established in 1521 by the benevolent merchant Jakob Fugger, Fuggerei has maintained its mission of providing affordable housing for over 500 years.

The complex features 67 houses with 140 apartments, each meticulously preserved in their original Renaissance style. While the exterior boasts historical charm, the interiors are equipped with modern amenities, offering residents the perfect blend of historical significance and contemporary comfort. Living in Fuggerei is more than just renting an apartment; it’s becoming part of a living testament to enduring social welfare and the sustainability of affordable housing.

So, how can rent remain so low for such a long time? Jakob Fugger, the wealthy merchant who founded Fuggerei, set the annual rent at a single Rhenish Guilder, equivalent to about 0.88 euros today. Remarkably, this rent has not been altered for over five centuries, allowing residents to live in this historical enclave for a mere fraction of modern housing costs.

However, there are a few unique conditions for living in Fuggerei. Prospective residents must be Catholic, say three prayers per day, and adhere to a nightly curfew, as the gates are locked at 10:00 PM. Despite these requirements, the offer of living in such a historically rich and affordable setting is undeniably captivating.

While the average cost of renting an apartment in the United States has skyrocketed, Fuggerei stands as a beacon of long-term charitable housing. This unique complex not only highlights the importance of social responsibility but also showcases the potential for affordable housing to endure through the ages.

Intrigued by this fascinating historical site? Dive deeper into the story and explore the captivating details of Fuggerei by watching the video. Discover how this remarkable enclave continues to provide affordable housing and preserve history for future generations.