Kurpfalzhof

Hidden amidst the flat expanse of the Rhine Valley lies Kurpfalzhof. It’s a quaint hamlet, a cluster of eight farmhouses encircling a central square. Kurpfalzhof is a modern “Angerdorf”, a village centered around a common green. This seemingly simple arrangement speaks volumes about its history and the community it fosters. Kurpfalzhof wasn’t always here. The land where it now stands was once part of the Hegenichwald forest. Throughout the 19th century, the forest gradually disappeared, making way for the agricultural landscape we see today. Kurpfalzhof emerged as the second of three planned settlements, nestled between Neurott, established in 1938, and Kirchheimer Hof, founded in 1958. These settlements addressed the growing conflict between the increasingly urban Kirchheim and the need for modernized farming practices. The Badische Landsiedlung, a rural settlement organization, envisioned farmers living closer to their fields. This vision brought Kurpfalzhof to life. The official inauguration took place on July 10, 1955. Initially known as the “Neubauernsiedlung Kirchheim” (New Farmers’ Settlement Kirchheim), Kurpfalzhof received its current name in 1961. The name pays homage to both the surrounding Kurpfalz region and Heidelberg, the historical heart of the Electorate of the Palatinate. In 2017, Kurpfalzhof was home to 61 residents. Over time, the farms specialized, focusing on fruit and vegetable cultivation. Asparagus plays a starring role in the spring harvest. Only one farm continued raising livestock. Alongside direct farm sales, a charming hotel garni and a bakery specializing in wood-fired bread added to the hamlet’s unique character. Kurpfalzhof is easily accessible from the B 535 highway, connecting Heidelberg, Schwetzingen, and Mannheim-Rheinau. Paved roads also lead to Plankstadt and Eppelheim. For those traveling by public transport, the 717 bus line, operated by Busverkehr Rhein-Neckar, connects Kurpfalzhof with Heidelberg, Oftersheim, Schwetzingen, and Speyer.