Once the main route to Calw, the Hasenberg now stands as one of Stuttgart’s highest points. It rises 458.8 meters above sea level. Let’s explore its past.
The Hasenberg is more than just an elevation. It is a district in Stuttgart-West. It separates the Nesenbach Valley from the Vogelsangbach Valley. The Karlshöhe lies closer to the city center. The two valleys merge behind it. The Rot- und Schwarzwildpark borders the Hasenberg to the west. This is the city’s largest continuous forest area.
The Hasenbergsteige is the main path to the top. This road starts at Johann-Sebastian-Bach-Platz. It passes the Gänsepeterbrunnen fountain. The road first leads to the saddle between Hasenberg and Karlshöhe. It then climbs steeply in an S-curve. This was once the main route to Calw. Wine once grew along this path.
The Hasenbergsteige crosses the Schwabtunnel. Stairs connect the tunnel’s north portal to the road. You will pass a viewing platform that has views of the Vogelsang valley. You will also see the north and east of Stuttgart. The Blauer Weg, a scenic path, runs parallel to the road. It offers southern views. The Osianderstraße, a former route to the Westbahnhof, is also nearby. At the top, you’ll find a sculpture park and a playground.
Living on the Hasenberg has always been prestigious. In the early 19th century publishers and architects lived here. Councilors and factory owners also called this home. This era created today’s “Villa Museum”. The contrast between valley and hillside led to the saying: “We up here, you down there”. The Hasenbergsteige was for the elite. The Hasenbergstraße was for the common folk.
Several notable figures resided on the Hasenberg. Henri Dunant, founder of the International Red Cross lived here for nearly a decade. The artist O. H. Hajek lived at Hasenbergsteige 65 until 2005. His house is now a protected monument. His sculpture park offers insights into his work. The Alexanderhäusle at Hasenbergsteige 60 is one of the city’s oldest monuments.
A key landmark was the Hasenberg Tower. August Beyer, who later built the Ulm Minster, designed it. It opened as a popular attraction but was blown up in 1943 during World War II to prevent enemy air raids. Today, only a small stump remains hidden in the woods.
So, as you stand here on the Hasenberg. Remember its history. From its panoramic views to its cultural significance, it is a special place in Stuttgart. The origin of the name Hasenberg is not scientifically proven. It is possible that many long-eared animals lived here.