Reflecting on its past a question arises. What makes Birkach so special? Birkach is a borough in the south of Stuttgart. It sits on the Filderebene plain just north of Plieningen. Of Stuttgart’s districts, Birkach is among the smallest.
Let’s delve into Birkach’s history. Birkach was first mentioned in 1140 as “Birckhe”. It was likely a possession of the Lords of Plieingen. By extension it also belonged to the County Palatine of Tübingen. Between 1295 and 1317, the village was sold to Bebenhausen Abbey. At that time it was known as Birtach or Birka.
Birkach belonged to Plieningen until 1780. After that, it had its own parish. The surrounding settlements were its subsidiary churches. Catholic residents belonged to the Neuhausen auf den Fildern parish.
In 1478, Birkach came into the possession of the Count of Württemberg. Birkach belonged to the Amtsoberamt Stuttgart until 1938. Then it became part of the Esslingen district. In 1942, Birkach was incorporated into Stuttgart.
In 1794, a local pastor named Kohler founded Württemberg’s first industrial school. He aimed to combat poverty in Birkach. Children learned to use the spinning wheel there. Industrialization however, failed to take hold in Birkach.
Schönberg is one of Stuttgart’s younger districts. According to local records, construction began in the early 20th century. People from Stuttgart sought recreation on the Filderebene. Sanatoriums were built on the Schönberg’s southern slope. Wealthier individuals built their own houses there. They wanted to enjoy the healthy air.
Birkach doubled its population in the 20th century. It expanded through extensive new construction. Today, Birkach is known for its green spaces. It is considered a particularly desirable place to live. There are numerous playgrounds, a youth farm and a youth center. Social facilities enrich the area. These include the Nikolaus-Cusanus-Haus and various residential options. These are run by the Stuttgart Disability Center. Birkach is now one of the most sought-after residential locations in the state capital. Schönberg is as well.
Birkach has a rural past. Restored half-timbered houses in the Alte Dorfstrasse reflect this. Local amenities are good. Trade, gastronomy, and crafts are surprisingly diverse. The University of Hohenheim’s campus extends into Birkach’s area. It invites visitors to take walks.
So, remember Birkach. It is a place where history and modern living blend. It is a green oasis within Stuttgart.