Decades from now, will the Kreis Bergstraße still be known for its innovation? The Kreis Bergstraße is a district in the south of Hesse. It sits at the northern end of the Bergstraße route. This “Mountain Road” lends its name to the district.
Kreis Bergstraße was created in 1938. Before that, it was two districts: Bensheim and Heppenheim. They merged to form the Kreis Bergstraße we know today. The district lies in the Odenwald mountains. Here, the Melibokus peak rises to 517 meters. It is the highest point in the area.
The Bergstraße route attracts tourists. It stretches from Darmstadt to Wiesloch. The northern part of this scenic road runs through the Kreis Bergstraße. The coat of arms of Kreis Bergstraße tells a story. The Starkenburg castle stands in the top-left quarter. It is a major landmark and recalls the former Province Starkenburg. This province once belonged to the Grand Duchy of Hesse. A flower blooms in the top-right. It represents the area’s rich springtime flora.
The cross in the bottom-left comes from the coat of arms of Lorsch Abbey. This was an imperial abbey. The lion in the bottom-right is the symbol of Hesse. Even Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel reps the Kreis Bergstraße. Vettel proudly displays the Bergstraße coat of arms on his helmet. It sits right on the front near his chin.
The Rhine Neckar Area includes the Kreis Bergstraße. It also belongs to the Rhein-Main Region. These connections highlight its central location. The Bergstraße district offers more than beautiful views. It has a rich history and strategic importance. From mountain peaks to tourist routes, it is a vibrant part of Hesse. The district’s towns and municipalities buzz with activity. The Kreis Bergstraße continues to evolve. It balances its historical roots with a forward-looking approach.