In a small town steeped in history, nestled among cobblestone streets and timeless architecture, a conversation unfolds. It begins simply—compliments on a blazer, shared laughter, and a nod to the quirks of small-town life. Yet, as the dialogue deepens, it reveals profound truths about family, identity, and the enduring power of human connection.

In season 10 of Humans of the World we sit down with Corinna Rother, the Managing Director of Hotel Reichsküchenmeister in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany.

This is the story of a fifth-generation keeper of a family legacy, whose roots run deep in the heart of Rothenburg, a town as much a part of the family as the people who inhabit it. Through her words, we glimpse into her life, woven with threads of tradition, resilience, and an unwavering sense of belonging.

The Weight and Gift of Legacy

For generations, the family has carried the torch of their hospitality business, a living testament to their history and values. Their home, once the residence of grandparents, has evolved into a space of welcome for countless travelers, a sanctuary that holds the whispers of its past within its walls.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic tested their resolve, as it did for many in the hospitality industry. Yet, their commitment to community shone through—employees stayed, bonds strengthened, and they shared meals and hope together.

This resilience is emblematic of what it means to steward a family legacy. It’s not just about preserving the past; it’s about adapting and evolving while staying true to the core values that have guided generations.

The Meaning of Belonging

For Corinna, identity is layered. She describe herself as a Rothenburger, a Franconian, a Bavarian, and a European, depending on the context. Yet, at her core, she is deeply connected to Rothenburg, a town of which she knows “every square centimeter” of.

Belonging, she explain, is more than geography; it’s about people, relationships, and shared experiences. It’s the return of familiar guests who have stayed with us for decades. It’s the traditions like house-made dishes that evoke memories of childhood, connecting past and present in a single bite.

In this globalized world, hers and the Hotel Reichsküchenmeister’s story reminds us that identity is both fluid and rooted. While travels to Munich, Mexico, and Hamburg shaped her perspective, home remained the constant—a grounding force amid life’s transitions.

The Heart of Human Connection

At the center of it all is the universal need for connection. Corinna’s words are filled with warmth and humanity, whether reminiscing about family traditions, celebrating milestones like their hotel’s centennial anniversary, or simply sharing a laugh about town quirks.

It’s this openness that transforms a business into a beacon of community. Guests don’t just return for the ambiance; they come back for the people, the sense of being known, and the intangible feeling of belonging to something greater.

What can we learn from this story?

What can we learn from this story? Perhaps it’s the importance of cherishing our roots while embracing the journey of growth. It’s the realization that challenges, whether personal or shared, can strengthen bonds and deepen our purpose. Most importantly, it’s the reminder that connection—through stories, shared meals, or even simple conversations—is at the heart of what makes us human.

In Corinna’s reflections, we see ourselves: our desire to be known, our pride in where we come from, and our hope to leave something meaningful for those who follow. It’s a powerful reminder that while the details of our lives may differ, the threads that bind us—family, community, and connection—are universal.

As we navigate our own paths, may we carry forward the lessons of this family’s journey: to honour the past, embrace the present, and nurture the connections that make life truly rich.

Humans of the World Season 10, Episode 2- Schneeballen, Gemütlichkeit & Christmas All Year, is now streaming on Britalians TV.