Wow. Look at this space. This was Rebstockbad.
Can you imagine 3000 people splashing here? This massive urban indoor pool was once Frankfurt’s largest. It welcomed half a million visitors annually. Over 22 million people enjoyed its attractions. Opened in 1982 it was one of Germany’s first “experience baths”.
Its architecture was striking. It resembled Japanese designs. Frankfurter architect Dieter Glaser created a spectacular ceiling. Tent-like elements formed a spacious yet clearly structured hall.
The Rebstockbad wasn’t just about swimming. There were diving boards. There were water slides. A wave pool. An outdoor pool. A playground and a beach volleyball court completed the outdoor area. The bathing area covered 7800 square meters. The total water surface was 3200 square meters.
Serious swimmers could train in a 25-meter pool. It could be extended to 50 meters for international competitions. There was a fitness room. Water aerobics classes were offered. For relaxation there were whirlpools saunas massage rooms and quiet zones.
The sauna area was separate. It had a Far Eastern-inspired interior. It was called Heian-Kyo-Sauna. It included six indoor saunas a steam bath a cold room whirlpools and a winter garden. Outside there was a large cold water pool and three outdoor saunas.
Sadly the Rebstockbad closed on April 30 2021. Damage to the wooden roof structure occurred over time. Moisture chlorine fumes and high average temperatures caused problems. In 2017 the bath had to be temporarily closed for repairs.
Renovation costs were estimated to be as high as those for a new building. The Frankfurt City Council voted for demolition and new construction on August 23 2018. A new Rebstockbad is planned for completion by 2027. It will cost 100 million euros. The site on Rebstockweiher remains. It is in the Rebstock area a former airport in the Bockenheim district. It was easily accessible by public transport via the Rebstockbad stop. The tram line 17 and bus line 50 served it. The stop keeps its name. The legacy of Rebstockbad lives on.