The gabled houses in their pristine condition reinforce the impression of a town which could have been transported directly from medieval ages into modern times.

The extent of timber frame construction used in this prosperous community can easily be explained by a local legislation which granted the citizens of Miltenberg free timber, from nearby forests which were communally owned. Furthermore, neither war nor fire inflicted any kind of harm upon this unique medieval architectural set up.

Historians agree that the relative economic slowdown during much of the 18th and 19th century in the area was nothing short of a blessing in disguise for the preservation of the authentic architecture used here. Even affluent citizens were not allowed to destroy their old homes to make way for bigger or more modern buildings.

The key event in the history of this little community was the construction of a Fortress called Mildenburg which was used in the 13th century by the Prince Electors and Archbishops of Mainz for collecting taxes as much as being a frontier garrison and military outpost towards the borders and Principality of Würzburg.

From the 14th century significant wine production contributed to the general wealth of the city and affluence of its citizens. Wine was being exported both to Nuremberg and Frankfurt. Today, Miltenberg still produces first class wine which visitors can taste in cosy old wine cellars, when taking part in one of many wine tasting tours organized by the local tourist office.