Understand

In 1715, Karlsruhe was founded by margrave Karl Wilhelm von Baden as a planned city. Its unique layout consists of a central circle housing the castle, with streets extending radially like spokes. This distinctive pattern earned the city the nickname "fan city" (Fächerstadt). The Rhine valley, where Karlsruhe is situated, enjoys a warm climate due to its low elevation, surrounded by the Black Forest in the east and the Vosges Mountains in the west. Consequently, Karlsruhe experiences more sunny days compared to other parts of Germany. While not attracting a large number of tourists like neighboring cities such as Heidelberg and Freiburg with their well-preserved old towns, Karlsruhe offers a hidden gem. Its radial layout is an excellent early example of New Urbanism and provides a delightful experience for exploration. The lower tourist traffic adds to the charm for visitors, as it becomes somewhat of a novelty for the locals. Karlsruhe is renowned for being home to two of Germany's highest federal courts, the Bundesverfassungsgericht (Federal Constitutional Court) and the Bundesgerichtshof (Federal Court of Justice). The presence of these institutions, along with other administrative facilities, has earned Karlsruhe the reputation of being a city of civil servants. The city also boasts a large technical university and several other colleges, with the technical university playing a significant role in promoting Free and Open Source Software. Previously, Karlsruhe hosted LinuxTag, a renowned event in the world of open-source software, until 2005.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Schnitzel - Traditional German breaded and fried meat cutlet, typically made with pork or veal. It is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, often served with potatoes and a side of sauce, such as tartar sauce or gravy.

Currywurst - A German fast food staple consisting of a sausage (usually a Vienna sausage) covered in a curry ketchup sauce, typically served with fries or a roll. This dish is known for its unique blend of flavors, combining German sausage with a hint of Indian spices.

Sauerkraut - Fermented cabbage dish that is a staple in German cuisine. It features cabbage that has been salted, shredded, and allowed to ferment, resulting in a tangy, slightly sour taste. Sauerkraut is often served as a side dish, accompanying meats and sausages.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing