Set on the banks of the Brenz River, Heidenheim an der Brenz is a historic town near the border between Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. It flourished as an important textile manufacturing hub during the 19th century and provided the backdrop to the Heidenheim Cherry War protests against high fruit prices in 1920.
Things to do in Heidenheim
Overlooking Heidenheim an der Brenz is Hellenstein Castle, which was established in the 12th century before coming under the control of the Dukes of Württemberg. It was rebuilt in the 16th century and is now home to a museum exploring the region’s history and cultural heritage. In addition to religious artwork, antique toys and vintage vehicles, the museum showcases a botanical collection of Alfred Meebold.
Adjacent to the railway station is the Kunstmuseum Heidenheim, which occupies an Art Nouveau-style building that dates back to 1904. It boasts one of the world’s most complete collections of posters by Pablo Picasso, which reflects his exploration of different printing techniques. Changing modern and contemporary art exhibitions also take place, highlighting both local and regional artists.
Heidenhaim an der Brenz’s most important green space is Brenz Park, which hugs the banks of the Brenz River north of the town centre. It occupies a former industrial site that has been transformed into a recreational area with landscaped flower beds, a children’s playground and a splash pad. Information about the region’s native flora and fauna is dotted throughout the site.
Getting around Heidenheim
Heidenheim an der Brenz is around a 1.5-hour drive from Stuttgart and one hour from Stuttgart Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Heidenheim railway station and buses travel through the town. The centre of Heidenheim an der Brenz is compact enough to explore on foot.