The medieval hospital of the Holy Spirit (in German: Heilig-Geist-Spital) is one of the most beautiful and interesting buildings in Nuremberg.

It is built on the banks of the river Pegnitz and partly with two main buildings arching directly over it to continue the complex on the Schütt island.

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For many centuries, the Hospital of the Holy Spirit was the largest hospital in Nuremberg and continues to serve the care of people today: it houses a home for the elderly.

The best view of the building over the river is from the Museumsbrücke and Spitalbrücke bridges.

History of the hospital

Along with the significant growth of the imperial city, the need for a new hospital and care centre arose in the 14th century.

Thus, in 1339 a new hospital dedicated to the Holy Spirit was partially built with the Pegnitz river bridge. This had practical reasons - the hospital was directly supplied with water and also maximised the space in the then already densely built-up city centre.

After the Second World War, a home for the elderly was established in part of the buildings, and part of it serves as a restaurant.