Gazing across Bruchhausen, can you picture it as a swamp? In 1102, this area was first mentioned as “Luitfridswilri”. A nobleman, Luitfried, built a water castle in the midst of the swamp around 1150. This watery landscape gave Bruchhausen its name, “Bruch” meaning swamp or marsh. Bruchhausen is Ettlingen’s largest district with nearly 5,000 residents. Originally a small farming village, it became part of Ettlingen in 1974. Though the swamps are now dry, the nickname “Froschbacher,” or “frog dwellers,” stuck. A large stone frog statue greets visitors at the northern entrance, a humorous nod to this watery past. Bruchhausen even celebrated its 800th anniversary in 1952 based on a document from 1152. Later, a document from 1102 surfaced, pushing the anniversary back another century. Some Bruchhausen residents actually attended both the 800th and 900th-anniversary celebrations. Today, Bruchhausen boasts modern amenities, convenient transportation, and a thriving local economy. The Badesee Buchtzig, a former quarry turned recreational lake, offers a sandy beach and relaxing escape. Bruchhausen has truly transformed from a marshy outpost to a vibrant community.
Eisenbahn-Bundesamt Außenstelle Karlsruhe
Ever wonder about the silent guardians of Germany’s railway safety? Right here in Karlsruhe stands an office of the Eisenbahn-Bundesamt.