Residenz

A related term, Residenzstadt, denotes a city where a sovereign ruler resided, and thus carries a similar meaning to the contemporary expressions seat of government or capital.

As there were many sovereign (imperially immediate) rulers in the Holy Roman Empire, ranking from lord (Herr) to prince elector and king, there are many cities, palaces, and castles in the empire's former territory which used to be a Residenz, some of which are still so referred to today.

The former status of a city as a Residenz is frequently reflected in the architecture of its center.

During the baroque period especially, many prestigious buildings were erected; sometimes even new towns were founded.

Examples of buildings or cities: Rulers who founded Residenz towns in the baroque era: