The 10th-century Altes Schloss, or Old Palace, is located in the heart of the city adjacent to the 19th-century New Palace. The castle has served as a residence for the city's sovereign counts and dukes of the area since its construction. By the command of several of the 16th-century dukes, the moats of the castle were removed and it was converted into a Renaissance castle. The castle that visitors can admire today was reconstructed in 1969, as the original was destroyed during World War II. The castle is currently the headquarters of the Württemberg State Museum that houses archaeological collections, as well as collections related to local history and culture.
With a history spanning almost 300 years, the building has seen a lot of changes and reconstructions. Originally built as barracks for the Duke's guards, it was later transformed into an orphanage. In 1922 the orphanage was transferred to another location and the building was meant to be torn down to make way for a new city hall. Nowadays, it houses the Institute of Foreign Relations, restaurants, a cafe, and in the courtyard a pleasant beer garden worth visiting.
Schlossplatz is a famous square in Stuttgart that is also home to the New Palace. The square underwent renovation in 1977 for the State Garden Show. It was again given a touch-up during the 2006 FIFA World Cup. The Jubilee Column in the center of the square was built to commemorate the silver jubilee of King Wilhelm I's reign in 1841. There are two fountains from the 19th Century with four cherubs each that stand for each river of Württemberg. Many local events take place at the square, including fairs and markets.
The construction of this architectural marvel by Giovanni Salucci started in early 1834 and was completed in 1840, and was dedicated to King Wilhelm I's daughters, Princesses Marie and Sophie. Later, King Wilhelm II inherited it and lived there until he abdicated in 1918. Having belonged to the city of Stuttgart ever since, it today houses a city museum. Much of the building was destroyed during WWII and was reconstructed in the early 1960s.
Schillerplatz is the oldest square in town and captures the essence of Stuttgart. It is here where you feel the history of the city, not only due to the historical and important buildings that surround the square but also because of this very special magical atmosphere. Schiller monument in the middle created by the Danish artist, Berthel Thorvaldsen, was revealed on May 9th, 1839. The Schillerplatz is home to Stuttgart's large and famous Christmas Market every year.
Gottlieb Daimler was a brilliant engineer and industrial designer who helped to shape the world of locomotion and invented the high-speed petrol engine. In 1882, Daimler bought the Taubenheimstraße estate in Cannstatt. The grounds included a greenhouse that Daimler turned into his workshop, where he designed some of his greatest inventions. After his death, Daimler's estate and grounds - including the famed greenhouse - were made into a memorial honoring the inventor. The memorial houses many of Daimler's inventions and documents, which are on display for visitors to look at.
Originally planned as a quiet little hunting seat, Castle Solitude turned into quite an ambitious project with Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam serving as an example to strive for in Duke Karl Eugen's mind. The palace was built in three construction phases, starting in 1764 and recurring restoration projects have made sure that the palace is still at its aesthetic best. It is a popular location, not only because of the views and its architectural beauty, but also for the concerts and exhibitions that are held here regularly. Events also take place in the Main Hall of the palace and its chapel is a dream setting for any intimate wedding. The Fritz Graevenitz Museum is located in one of the palace's buildings and guided tours of the palace are open to the public.
Ludwigsburg Palace is easily one of Germany's biggest castles. This Baroque structure, just 14 kilometers (9 miles) north of Stuttgart, will certainly leave you with amazement. Built in the 18th Century, this castle is a popular property as far as tourism is concerned. The residential palace together with palace garden and the three palaces make up the amazing Ludwigsburg estate. Nowadays, there is also a shop, restaurant, and museum built there.
A stand out structure in Germany that belongs to the Cistern era is the Bebenhausen Monastery, located in a village named Bebenhausen. This building is credited to Rudolph I, Count Palatine of Tübingen, who commissioned its construction in the 11th Century. The monastery is one of the best-preserved in the region, making it a great off the beaten path destination. The one thing to remember before visiting this iconic attraction is that opening times vary.