“An old village by the city.” That’s how Beiertheim is described. Welcome to Beiertheim-Bulach, a district born from the union of two once-independent communities.
Beiertheim-Bulach’s story is one of villages growing and merging. Beiertheim was first documented in 1110 as Burdam. It is far older than Karlsruhe itself. For a long time, Beiertheim belonged to Gottesaue Monastery before becoming part of Baden.
In the 19th century, Karlsruhe began buying up Beiertheim land. The city expanded southward. Beiertheim was officially incorporated into Karlsruhe in 1907.
Bulach’s history is also fascinating. In the late 12th century, Bulande was owned by Frauenalb Monastery. It wasn’t until the mid-16th century that it became part of Baden-Baden.
Bulach transformed in the 19th century. It shifted from a farming village to a residential community for industrial workers. Bulach was incorporated into Karlsruhe in 1929. Now, it forms the Beiertheim-Bulach district with Beiertheim.
Notice the Breite Straße. This road cuts through Beiertheim. It marks the heart of the old village. Breite Straße is a reminder of Beiertheim-Bulach’s history.
Take a look at the intersection of Breite Straße and Gebhardstraße. Here stands a Hardthaus-style timber-framed house. It was built in the late 17th century. It shows the original character of Beiertheim.
Consider the Albtalbahnhof. It was once the starting point for a narrow-gauge railway into the Alb Valley. Today, it connects Beiertheim-Bulach to destinations like Freudenstadt and even cities across the Rhine.
As you explore, observe the Alb River. It forms the southern boundary of Beiertheim’s developed area. The Alb provided for the community.
Let’s talk about the Wächerinnenbrunnen in Bulach. The fountain reminds us of the past. Bulach was known as a village of washerwomen. The Alb’s soft water made it ideal for laundry.
Note St. Cyriakus Church on Litzenhardtstraße. Hübsch built this large three-aisled basilica in the Romanesque Revival style. It shows us the architecture of the time.
Finally, consider Scheibenhardt hunting lodge. This estate lies south of Bulach. A moat surrounds it. Today, the Karlsruhe Art Academy uses the main building.
From ancient villages to modern district Beiertheim-Bulach is a testament to time. Its streets and buildings tell a story of growth and transformation. Take a moment to appreciate Beiertheim-Bulach’s past, present and future.