Where industry meets innovation, that’s where our story begins in Brühl. Brühl is a northwestern district of Freiburg. It emerged with Freiburg’s industrialization in the late 19th century.
Brühl is not just a place. It is a testament to Freiburg’s evolving identity. We’re standing in a district with a rich mix of commerce, culture, and community. Brühl consists of three distinct areas. These are Brühl-Güterbahnhof, Brühl-Industriegebiet, and Brühl-Beurbarung. Each has its own unique character.
Imagine this area decades ago. It was mostly Zähringer and Betzenhauser land. Now, Brühl is a vibrant part of Freiburg. It has a population of over 13,000 residents. The district is known for its industrial presence. It includes the Flugplatz Freiburg.
Brühl’s identity is complex. The Industriegebiet, is often considered separate. Even the Flugplatz and the Technische Fakultät are seen as distinct. The Beurbarung district was once associated with Stühlinger. Since 2015, it officially belongs to Brühl.
Let’s talk about the transformation of the Güterbahnhof. Many tracks were decommissioned. In 2001, a contract was signed to redevelop the area. There was debate between the city and Aurelis. Aurelis wanted rapid, profitable development, including housing. In 2012, they agreed on a mix of business and residential construction. The name Gare du Nord was dropped. The city continues to seek a new name for this district.
The Lokhalle is a notable landmark. Built between 1903 and 1905, it is now a protected monument. Once a venue for events, safety concerns led to its closure. From 2011 to 2016, it was renovated with state funding. Today, it houses a creative park with about 20 companies.
The new city railway shortened the ways from Güterbahnviertel to the tram. A bus connection is required by the Bürgerverein Brühl-Beurbarung. The Smart Green Tower is being built at Zollhallenplatz. Dr Falk Pharma will build its new headquarter opposite the Lokhalle.
Brühl has a well-developed road network. There are also industrial railway tracks. The Breisacher Bahn has three stops on the edge of the district. Tram lines 2 and 4 serve Brühl. In 2023, the line 2 tracks were relocated to Waldkircher Straße. The goal was to improve access to the new residential area.
The FR 2 and FR 3 cycle routes provide north-south connections. A cycle route to Breisach is planned. It includes a bridge over the Güterbahn. Brühl has 12 Frelo bike rental stations.
The Flugplatz Freiburg is here. It is for small aircraft. Rhodia began the development of the Industriegebiet Nord in 1926/27. Today, large companies are located here. These include Cerdia, Pfizer, and TDK-Micronas. Furniture stores like Ikea and Möbel Braun are near the Flugplatz.
The Neue Messe is a vital part of Freiburg’s economy. The Hauptfriedhof and the Kandelhof cinema are located in the south. Since October 2021, SC Freiburg has played at the Mooswaldstadion.
Let us turn our attention to the Turmcafé. This unique building on Zähringer Straße dates back to 1951. Designed by Wilhelm Schelkes, it was originally planned for Borgward. It is now a protected monument.
Brühl is more than an industrial area. It is a district shaped by history and innovation. From its industrial roots to its modern developments, Brühl offers a glimpse into Freiburg’s dynamic spirit. Its transformation continues, shaping the city’s future.