Did you know this square is named after a mayor? This is Manfred-Rommel-Platz. It honors Manfred Rommel. He was Stuttgart’s former mayor. He also championed Stuttgart 21.
Manfred-Rommel-Platz is still under construction. It is planned to be completed by 2025. The square sits atop the new main train station. It is part of the station’s roof. The Deutsche Bahn owns this space.
Originally, it was to be named Straßburger Platz. This name would honor Stuttgart’s partnership with Strasbourg. But the city decided to honor Rommel instead. They are seeking another place for the Strasbourg tribute.
Manfred-Rommel-Platz covers 15000 square meters. It will link to the Rosenstein quarter. Rows of trees will line the sides of the square. The square will feature eleven light eyes. These bring light into the station below. A large entrance shell faces Kurt-Georg-Kiesinger-Platz. Another entrance shell points towards Schillerstraße. A third one leads to the Schlossgarten.
Initially, asphalt was planned between the light eyes. Stone chips were to be rolled onto it. A water-bound surface was considered but rejected. This was due to expected dust. The asphalt solution was more expensive. In mid-2022, the council decided on grass instead. This requires an irrigation system. Two diagonal paths will still be asphalt.
The Manfred-Rommel-Platz is more than just a square. It is a tribute to a man. He shaped Stuttgart’s modern era. This square will offer a new public space. It will connect different parts of the city. It also serves as a reminder of Stuttgart’s progress. It looks to the future.