Not much is known about the foundation of Meersburg. It is thought that there might have been a fortification here constructed by the Franks. The first use of a name recognisable as a forerunner of Meersburg was in the 11th century. The town became the property of the bishops of Konstanz in the 13th century when the ruler of the town died without any heirs. They developed what at the time was a small town around the old castle with city walls and obtained the rights to hold a market.

Nowadays Meersburg is considered being one of the most beautiful spots along the Bodensee. One can still feel the spirit of history in the alleys and cobbled streets with many half-timbered buildings and picturesque corners. The so called Oberstadt is dominated by two castles; 'old' and 'new' castle are formerly residences of the prince bishops of Konstanz.

Meersburg still has two ancient city gates. The Oberes Tor (main image) was built in the 15th century and was part of the defensive city wall.