Could you imagine a lake whose name echoes tales of clay and earth? This is the Tachensee. The Tachensee is Stuttgart’s only natural lake nestled in Weilimdorf.
Let’s dive into what makes the Tachensee special. Its name comes from the old German words “dahe” or “tahe”. They mean “loam” or “clay”. This hints at the muddy history of the area.
The Tachensee sits on the western edge of the Greutterwald nature reserve. It is at the foot of the Lemberg ridge. The Tachensee lies between Weilimdorf and Korntal at 311.4 meters above sea level. Geologically, it is part of the Southern Strohgäurand. This area is within the Neckar Basin.
Interestingly, the Tachensee’s location is marked by a geological fault line. This line runs east to west right through the lake. This fault influences the natural drainage. Water flows west into the Lindenbach. The Lindenbach then joins the Glems. Eventually, the water finds its way to the Neckar, Rhine, and North Sea.
Once upon a time in the 19th century, the Tachensee had a rather peculiar purpose. It was used for breeding leeches. These weren’t just any leeches. They were bloodsuckers used for medical treatments.
In 1862, Gottlob Pfleiderer bought land by the Tachensee. He was the head of the nearby Korntal boys’ institute. He built a country house on the western shore. His students used the area for sports.
Later, in 1905, the painter Otto Reiniger acquired the country house. To this day, the Tachensee remains privately owned by his descendants.
The Tachensee itself covers about 60 acres. While not vast, it offers a unique natural habitat within Stuttgart. It is a peaceful retreat. It connects us to both nature and local history.
So, as you stand here by the Tachensee, think about its journey through time. From a source of medicinal leeches to a recreational spot and a painter’s retreat. The Tachensee holds stories within its waters. It quietly contributes to Stuttgart’s identity.