From a humble rabbit warren to a sprawling Munich suburb that’s Hasenbergl’s story. Picture this a simple hill four kilometers south of Schloss Schleissheim. In the 18th century rabbits were raised there for the princely hunts. This hill later became known as Hasenbergl meaning Rabbit Hill.
Initially a small settlement of houses Hasenbergl experienced a major transformation after World War II. Thousands of people needed homes. So the area was developed into a large social housing project. Seven non-profit housing companies built thousands of apartments. They aimed to create modern spacious green living. Architects like Ernst Maria Lang and Ernst Böllemann shaped the landscape. Many residents built their own homes often facing significant hardship.
The early years weren’t easy for Hasenbergl. It lacked essential infrastructure. Schools churches businesses and proper transport links were scarce. It was considered a social hotspot due to its demographics. But things started to change. In 1970 Germany’s first integrated comprehensive school opened there. An adventure playground followed. The Erich Kästner secondary school was built in 1979. The Lichtblick Hasenbergl a social facility supporting children and youth from underprivileged backgrounds opened its doors in 1993.
In the following decades significant improvements were made. The U-Bahn line 2 extension in 1996 vastly improved transportation. Student housing and the Mira shopping center further enhanced the quality of life. The refurbishment of Goldschmiedplatz and the Nordhaide school center continued this positive development. This renewal was supported by an integrated social city action plan. Today Hasenbergl remains one of Munich’s largest districts. The Düferanger was redesigned into a festive meadow. It hosts many events including the annual Bürgerfest and Volksfest. In 2012 the 2411 cultural center opened its doors. This acts as a community center for around 80000 people.
Hasenbergl’s transformation showcases the resilience of a community. It went from a place of hardship to a vibrant district. From a simple rabbit warren to a modern suburb with a rich and fascinating history. The rabbit hill has certainly grown.