Pfinztal-Soellingen

Welcome to Pfinztal-Soellingen

Named after the river “Pfinz” the community of Pfinztal was founded in 1974 from the formerly independent communities of Berghausen, Kleinsteinbach, Sölligen and Wöschbach (Wöschbach is not on the Bertha Benz Memorial Route). With approximately 18000 inhabitants Pfinztal is the biggest community without town charter in Baden-Württemberg. The community cooperates with several towns and cities on a partnership base – these are Leerdam (Netherlands) and Rockycany (Czech Republic).

More than half of the communities area is under nature and landscape protection. The landscape is quite interesting topographically. Picturesque riversides of the Pfinz, pristine forests, meadows and vine slopes characterize the landscape.

Due to the close proximity to Karlsruhe and other cities the community is fast to reach by car and pubic transportation, and hence a popular trip destination and as well as a living space. Not only the excellent reachability but the tranquil location and the intact community life are the reason for the villages’ attractiveness.

The community is very active concerning the use of renewable energies. Despite the use of photovoltaic facilities on several public buildings a hydroelectric power plant helps to deliver the green energy the community needs. Two wood chip-heating facilities create more then 50% of the heating needed for public buildings.

Trivia

• The first authentic mention of Söllingen dates back to 1085. In the 12th century Söllingen was estate property of the monasteries of Gottesau, Herrenalb and Hirsau. Back then the village was named “Saldingen”. During the 16th century the estate property was transferred to the markgravate Baden. Up until today Söllingen, with 5569 inhabitants, possesses a great appeal as a place to live.
• Businesses and industry rose in importance in the 19th century. An important industrial enterprise was erected at the border to Kleinsteinbach - the Wolfram plant “Hammer Mill Söllingen”. Not existent anymore the name hammer mill still is used to describe the industrial park located at the former site of the plant. There are only a few buildings left from this time. The five star hotel “Villa Hammerschmiede”, is not only one of these but the internationally renowned hotel is located in the former Villa of the owner of the Wolfram plant.
• The site is home to the municipal administration, housed in the baroque city hall on the “Hauptstraße”. The town house, which gives space to exhibitions, music festivities and theatre displays, houses the local museum.
• Parts of the “Michaelskirche” (Michael church) date back to the 13th century and are designed in late Gothic style. The cultural monument accommodates, besides many other treasures of cultural importance, a Hercules relief. This relief is embedded in the roof over the choir of the church.
• The beautiful Leerdam-square or the hiking routes along the Pfinz and in the region of the winery invite visitors and hikers. The nature discovery and adventure trail Pfinztal allows for a closer connection with nature for young and old.