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[{"address":"The Staatstheater Stuttgart","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12324048368193793,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.77971289132432,"longitude":9.184281933142525},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(6).m4a?alt=media&token=bb1115c0-b485-4980-afaf-96ba46281693"},{"type":"text","content":"We are starting our tour at the Stuttgart Opera, located in the \"Oberer Schlossgarten\".\nThe Staatsoper Stuttgart, also known as the Stuttgart State Opera, is a world-renowned opera house that delights audiences with its captivating performances and stunning productions.\n\nDid you know that the Staatsoper Stuttgart has a history dating back to the 18th century? It was founded in 1762 and has since become one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in Europe. The current building, located in the heart of Stuttgart, was built in the 20th century and is a true architectural gem, combining modern and historical elements.\n\nOne of the unique features of the Staatsoper Stuttgart is its innovative and avant-garde approach to opera. You are poperbly familiar with play \"Haensel and Gretl\" - I recently saw it, but it played in a post-apocalyptic time with aliens instead of old, kind-of-medival setting...\nSo, whether you're an opera aficionado or simply appreciate the performing arts, a visit to the Staatsoper Stuttgart is a must. Prepare to be mesmerized by the talent, creativity, and innovation that this world-class opera house has to offer!\n\n"}]},{"address":"Schlossplatz Stuttgart","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12324048368193793,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.77847851812618,"longitude":9.179548100000007},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(7).m4a?alt=media&token=d7c85219-b4dc-4883-9c1b-2b1f49a2ab8e"},{"type":"text","content":"Schlossplatz, the heart of Stuttgart! This beautiful square is not only the largest square in Stuttgart, but it's also steeped in history and surrounded by stunning architecture."},{"type":"text","content":"A few times per year, a huge ferrywheel is placed here and you get a great sight over the city!"},{"type":"text","content":"Did you know that Schlossplatz was once home to the Stuttgart Residence, which was the official residence of the kings of Württemberg? Unfortunately, the palace was destroyed during World War II, but the square still retains its grandeur with its vast open space and picturesque surroundings.\n\nOne of the most prominent landmarks at Schlossplatz is the New Palace, also known as the \"Neues Schloss.\" This majestic building, with its impressive Baroque-style façade, now serves as the seat of the regional government of Baden-Württemberg. Fun fact: The New Palace has over 350 rooms, making it one of the largest palaces in Southern Germany!\n\nSchlossplatz is also a popular spot for events and festivals. During the summer, you can catch live music performances, open-air markets, and cultural events that bring the square to life. And in the winter, Schlossplatz transforms into a magical winter wonderland with a festive Christmas market and ice-skating rink.\n\nBut wait, there's more! Hidden beneath Schlossplatz is a network of tunnels known as the \"Stuttgarter Untergrund.\" These tunnels were originally built as air-raid shelters during World War II and are now used for various purposes, including storage and events. In fact, some parts of the tunnels have been converted into unique venues for art exhibitions and concerts, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience.\n\nSo whether you're admiring the architecture, attending an event, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, Schlossplatz is a must-visit destination in Stuttgart. Don't forget to snap some photos and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this iconic square!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fmarcel-strauss-scRAqYkxxqw-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=04acf543-5897-4627-a3fa-c658acfa64d5"}]},{"address":"Markthalle Stuttgart","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.77638511812483,"longitude":9.179263199999976},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(8).m4a?alt=media&token=e16de62f-3888-48b9-b2f9-40d556fcf7e1"},{"type":"text","content":"Next, we'll head over to the Markthalle, or Market Hall. This is a great place to sample local foods and buy souvenirs. Inside, you'll find over 30 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to handcrafted goods."},{"type":"text","content":"You will find amazing quality food here - but it is not cheap! However, this is one of my favorite places to go!"},{"type":"text","content":"It was opened in 1914 and has been a beloved institution for foodies ever since. The market hall is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, featuring ornate ironwork, colorful tiles, and a stunning glass roof that floods the space with natural light. So, whether you're a foodie looking for gourmet treats, a culture enthusiast seeking a taste of local cuisine, or simply someone who appreciates the vibrant atmosphere of markets, a visit to the Markthalle Stuttgart is a must. Get ready to indulge in delicious flavors and immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Stuttgart!"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fandrea-g-M88nZ9cKoNw-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=3795e3f1-5e3a-4cc7-aa3f-881d16aa0dda"}]},{"address":"Hans im Glück Brunnen","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.77339146812296,"longitude":9.17736860000001},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(9).m4a?alt=media&token=f5528786-97f6-417f-8c55-6cd9a6cf63eb"},{"type":"text","content":"The Hans im Glück Brunnen, a whimsical fountain that captures the imagination of both young and old in Stuttgart! This iconic fountain is a symbol of the city and has a fascinating story behind it."},{"type":"text","content":"I like to come here for a few drinks - for example at Matahari, where you will meet young locals!\n\nThe Hans im Glück Brunnen depicts a scene from a popular German fairy tale called \"Hans im Glück,\" which translates to \"Hans in Luck.\" The tale is about a young man named Hans who trades his possessions for something he believes will bring him happiness, only to find that true happiness lies in contentment with what he already has.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"The fountain features a bronze statue of Hans sitting atop a column, with various symbolic objects around him, such as a bag of gold, a sack of bread, a goose, and a millstone. These objects represent the different things that Hans acquires and then gives up in the pursuit of happiness, ultimately realizing that simplicity and contentment are the keys to true joy.\n\nBut what makes the Hans im Glück Brunnen truly unique and amusing is the playful details and artistic expressions of the characters. Hans is depicted with a carefree and cheerful expression, sitting cross-legged and barefoot, with a big grin on his face. The other objects around him, such as the goose and the millstone, are also crafted with intricate details and a touch of humor.\n\nOne of the fun traditions associated with the Hans im Glück Brunnen is rubbing the millstone for good luck. Legend has it that rubbing the millstone will bring good fortune and ensure a return to Stuttgart. So, you may see visitors and locals alike giving the millstone a little rub for some extra luck during their stay in the city.\n\nThe Hans im Glück Brunnen is located in the heart of Stuttgart's city center, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to gather, take photos, and enjoy the whimsical charm of this unique fountain. It's a delightful piece of art that tells a captivating story and brings joy to all who encounter it.\n\nSo, next time you're in Stuttgart, be sure to pay a visit to the Hans im Glück Brunnen, and perhaps you'll be inspired by Hans' tale of happiness and contentment as you admire this charming and whimsical fountain!\n\n"}]},{"address":"Feuersee","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.7736546014338,"longitude":9.165174517637391},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(10).m4a?alt=media&token=0d351dcb-d76a-428c-8586-b77e38cc4a87"},{"type":"text","content":"Feuersee, a tranquil oasis in the midst of Stuttgart's bustling cityscape! This picturesque lake is a beloved spot for relaxation, recreation, and reflection. During summer, you will see a lot of locals enjoying a cold beer or wine - it can get crowded! But you will always find a spot on the stairs. Just get yourself a bottle of beer or wine from a surrounding supermarket, and enjoy your time here.\n\nFeuersee, which translates to \"Fire Lake,\" is a man-made lake located in the heart of Stuttgart. It was originally created in the 19th century as a reservoir to supply water to the city's fire-fighting system, hence the name \"Feuersee.\" Over the years, it has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike to enjoy its serene beauty and peaceful ambiance.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Feuersee also has historical significance. It is home to the Johanneskirche, a beautiful church built in the Gothic Revival style in the 19th century. The church, with its tall spire and intricate details, adds to the charm and character of Feuersee, making it a popular spot for wedding photos and other special occasions."},{"type":"text","content":"What immediately catches the eye of the attentive observer: the church tower is missing its spire. The tower and the church were heavily destroyed by bombing during the Second World War. For cost reasons, the tower was initially not completely rebuilt. Today, it is precisely the missing spire that makes St. John's Church something very special. Many Stuttgart residents see it as a memorial against the war.\n\nThe church without a spire is idyllically located on an artificially created peninsula in the Feuersee and at the beginning of the former boulevard Johannesstraße. Those who take a seat on the newly designed promenade have a beautiful view of the ensemble. With a bit of luck, you might even see the exotic inhabitants of the Feuersee: the water turtles, which like to sun themselves on groves and in the shore area when the temperatures are warm.\n\n"}]},{"address":"Athenebrunnen","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.76830119546426,"longitude":9.164466968921134},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(11).m4a?alt=media&token=64d05cdf-9926-4559-8ef5-d37e4f914e92"},{"type":"text","content":"Let us walk up to our next stop: Karlshöhe!"},{"type":"text","content":"This was one of the first places I visited, when I moved to Stuttgart. In summer, it is a great place to lay in the sun and enjoy the view on Stuttgart-Süd."},{"type":"text","content":"The ascent may be challenging, but it offers wonderful views along the way. The most breathtaking view is certainly from the observation platform above the beer garden, extending all the way to the Schurwald. Most visitors are likely drawn to the scenery and the beer garden.\n\nHowever, it's worth exploring the rest of the park as well. Romantic paths meander through English-style gardens, and here and there you'll find silent witnesses of the past, such as the enchanting Pallas Athena fountain.\n\nIf you still have time and energy after visiting Karlshöhe, you can explore another hidden gem at the foot of the hill: the Stuttgart Municipal Lapidarium in the former Ostertag-Siegle Villa Park, located at Mörikestraße 24.\n\nInterestingly, Karlshöhe was originally a quarry. The stones extracted from here were used in various buildings, including the Old Castle and the Ulm Minster.\n\n"}]},{"address":"Marienplatz","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.764332118117146,"longitude":9.167539100000024},"media":[{"type":"text","content":"If you are lucky, you can see something I never really understood: Often you see "},{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(12).m4a?alt=media&token=2e6db4a7-8792-469c-bd44-fbcd20913f62"},{"type":"text","content":"groups of people just sitting on the floor around this square. I am still not used to that view and prefer to grab an ice cream from the gelateria and sit in a chair. But whatever floats your boat! You can find some crazy icecream creations!"},{"type":"text","content":"The Marienplatz is a square located in Stuttgart-Süd. It dates back to a park established in 1876 and exists in its current form since 2003. The square was named by King Wilhelm II of Württemberg after the first name of his fiancée, Marie zu Waldeck und Pyrmont. The Marienplatz is known for its historical significance and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.\n\nIn addition, the Marienplatz is also associated with the \"Zacke,\" which is a colloquial term used by locals to refer to the Stuttgart Rack Railway (Stuttgarter Zahnradbahn). This railway line connects Marienplatz with the Santiago-de-Chile-Platz, which is another square located at a higher elevation in Stuttgart. The \"Zacke\" is a beloved mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike, known for its unique charm and scenic views along the way.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Get a ticket, jump onto the Zacke and enjoy the steep ride!"}]},{"address":"Santiago de Chile Place","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.75545376811152,"longitude":9.172541699999991},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(13).m4a?alt=media&token=7b522476-a7d3-4136-879c-5805c108dd38"},{"type":"text","content":"The Santiago-de-Chile-Platz in Stuttgart-Degerloch offers a magnificent view over the city center of Stuttgart. In addition to the panoramic view, visitors can also admire sculptures from Chile, including a Moai sculpture from Easter Island. Taking the \"Zacke,\" Stuttgart's Rack Railway, to the Santiago-de-Chile-Platz allows for enjoying the view along the way. There is even more to see on the square itself. The panoramic view extends over the city center to the Europaviertel behind the main train station and beyond on a clear day. An orientation panel on the edge of the viewing platform points out the various landmarks in the line of sight.\n\nOriginally, the square was named \"Auf dem Haigst.\" However, in October 2006, it was renamed \"Santiago-de-Chile-Platz\" due to a visit by the former President of the Republic of Chile, Dr. Michelle Bachelet. Three sculptures represent Chile on the square: a large Moai sculpture from Easter Island, a memorial stone made from stone from the Maipo Valley, and a bust of the Chilean Nobel Prize winner Gabriela Mistral.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Interestingly, there is also a counterpart to Stuttgart's Santiago-de-Chile-Platz in Chile. In Santiago de Chile, there is a \"Plaza Stuttgart\" with three sculptures of the Stuttgart Rössle, a famous symbol of Stuttgart."}]},{"address":"Stuttgart TV Tower","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.75563251811164,"longitude":9.189570950000006},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(14).m4a?alt=media&token=80870275-4d3e-4cd5-9c9a-f9cd6ac7a094"},{"type":"text","content":"The people of Stuttgart are proud of their landmark, the Fernsehturm (TV tower), located on the Hoher Bopser hill. However, its construction was initially met with skepticism, but this quickly faded when the Fernsehturm was inaugurated in 1956.\n\nThe Fernsehturm is not only one of the most famous landmarks of Stuttgart, but it also boasts a world record: it was the world's first TV tower made of reinforced concrete.\n\nInterestingly, the Fernsehturm was not originally planned to be built. In the early 1950s, when television broadcasting resumed, Stuttgart lacked a TV transmitter. The Süddeutscher Rundfunk (SDR), a regional broadcaster, initially planned to build a 200-meter high steel lattice mast. However, the government building officer Fritz Leonhardt learned about the project by chance and convinced the responsible authorities at SDR that such a lattice mast would spoil the scenic landscape of Stuttgart's elevated location. Instead of a simple mast, an observation tower with a café was proposed. Construction began on June 10, 1954, and after only 20 months of construction, the tower was inaugurated on February 5, 1956.\n\nThe Fernsehturm Stuttgart stands at a height of over 217 meters. Its viewing platform and gastronomic offerings make it popular not only among tourists but also among locals. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the tower's basket all the way to the Swabian Alps. However, it no longer serves its original purpose, as since July 2006, the neighboring Fernmeldeturm has taken over TV broadcasting duties from the Fernsehturm.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"Here at the Television Tower, our walking tour comes to an end. However, there are still more highlights to explore, which can be reached by public transportation. Next stop: The Mercedes-Benz Museum!"}]},{"address":"Mercedes-Benz Museum","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.78834951813246,"longitude":9.234203700000009},"media":[{"type":"text","content":"Welcome to one of the most famous museums! "},{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(15).m4a?alt=media&token=f8c481a9-2340-47c3-b4e4-f1e7e09affb2"},{"type":"text","content":"By the way: I worked in the Mercedes-Benz Museum for over four years. If you visit it, say \"hi\" from their former colleague Lukas :-)"},{"type":"text","content":"The Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart presents a journey through the automotive history of the global corporation. The story of the Mercedes star naturally begins with the first automobile in 1886. Opened in 2006, the Mercedes-Benz Museum is one of the most visited museums in Stuttgart, showcasing 160 vehicles and over 1,500 exhibits on its exhibition space. An elevator transports visitors to the top of the nine levels - and back to the year 1886, where one of the highlights can be admired: the Benz Patent-Motorwagen Number 1, the first automobile with an internal combustion engine built by Carl Benz.\n\nTwo circular tours lead through the extensive collection in sweeping curves. The first tour tells the brand's history in seven \"Legends Rooms\". The second tour organizes the abundance of vehicles into five \"Collections Rooms\".\n\nAmong the most extraordinary exhibits in the museum are the legendary \"Silver Arrows\", the \"Papamobile\" of Pope John Paul II, as well as the cars of Kaiser Wilhelm II and Hirohito.\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fandrea-g-7aFiVEP9cx0-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=e80a0bf6-4b0c-445b-b3af-85051d542fe3"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fchristian-wiediger-n9xJJloEiww-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=84a0a6df-3a20-468b-9170-411e03039099"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fmarcel-strauss-_GNmX73ix5A-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=b0c35a0e-10df-4070-8830-0d1393cc8390"}]},{"address":"Sepulchral Chapel on Württemberg hill","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.781883118128334,"longitude":9.269085699999987},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(16).m4a?alt=media&token=dff2352c-9f2f-498e-86bf-21f3e1c8d5c0"},{"type":"text","content":"The Württemberg Mausoleum, also known affectionately as the \"Swabian Taj Mahal\", is perhaps the most romantic building in Stuttgart. Similar to the Taj Mahal in India, the mausoleum in Stuttgart is a monument to a great love story. When King Wilhelm I of Württemberg married his cousin Katharina Pawlowna in 1816, no one could have predicted that their marriage would only last three years. Katharina passed away unexpectedly in January 1819, at the age of only 30.\n\nHowever, the bond of love was so strong that King Wilhelm I erected a memorial for her. He had the old ancestral castle of the Württembergers demolished on Rotenberg, in the east of Stuttgart, and a romantic mausoleum for Katharina built there by court architect Giovanni Salucci. Above the main entrance hangs the devoted inscription: \"Love never ends.\"\n\nSince 1907, the mausoleum has been publicly accessible. Currently, it is open for visits from early April to the end of November. In addition to the romantic architecture, visitors are also impressed by its location amidst the vineyards and the panoramic view over the Neckar Valley.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"I recommend to come here during sunset! You will also find some nice small restaurants. But make sure to book in advance!"}]},{"address":"Porsche Museum","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.83415791816175,"longitude":9.152140350000026},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(17).m4a?alt=media&token=6e6101a2-7f5d-44f2-a89c-83e9bc64d4b4"},{"type":"text","content":"The Porsche Museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen is a paradise for sports car enthusiasts and has been captivating visitors since its opening in 2009. The museum is located in the factory premises where Porsche sports cars are produced, featuring the iconic Porsche logo. The exterior of the museum is a highlight in itself, with its main body supported by three V-shaped pillars, giving the impression that the polygonal building is floating above the ground. The sculpture in front of the museum, featuring three pillars each carrying a Porsche 911, offers a glimpse of what awaits inside.\n\nVisitors are guided from the foyer to the expansive exhibition hall via a spectacular staircase. The Porsche Museum showcases over 80 vehicles and 200 smaller exhibits, including classics such as the Porsche 356, 911, and 917, as well as the VW Beetle developed by Ferdinand Porsche. The museum also delves into Porsche's work from the early 20th century. In addition to the exhibits, visitors can also observe the experts in the museum's workshop for historic vehicles through a glass window as they repair vintage cars. For those looking to save on admission, there is a ticket cooperation between the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum, where showing the admission ticket from one museum grants a discount at the other.\n\n"}]},{"address":"Stadtbibliothek am Mailänder Platz","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.789913218133464,"longitude":9.182998349999991},"media":[{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(18).m4a?alt=media&token=76f3aaf0-be17-4adb-a3cd-b7e1e713dd0e"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fmarcel-strauss-PhqfgruGprA-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=dc1c2525-0b5a-446b-a84e-9bcfa81f3282"},{"type":"text","content":"During the day, a simple glass cube, at night, a blue light sculpture - the city library located just behind Stuttgart Central Station is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It has also become one of the most popular photo spots in Stuttgart. Libraries are testaments to knowledge and often gems of architecture, and this holds true for the minimalist new building of the Stuttgart City Library, which opened in 2011. The square building rises about 40 meters in height, with a facade made of monolithic cube of grey concrete and matte glass, exuding a certain hardness. The interior of the library, on the other hand, is entirely designed in white - from the walls to the floor to the staircase. The effect is that everything appears light, clear, and tranquil.\n\nUpon entering the city library, visitors are greeted by a high, empty space, known as the heart of the library, which leaves behind the hectic outside world. From there, the reading room extends over several floors, connected by open staircases. Each level features galleries with bookshelves and reading areas. Around 500,000 media items are"},{"type":"text","content":" housed in the shelves, unless they are on loan. Because everything is kept in white, the colorful book spines bring color to the futuristic building. The glass roof above the atrium allows ample natural light to flood the galleries.\n\nThe \"Lesbar\" café and the rooftop terrace, which is open in the summer, invite visitors to linger and enjoy the stunning views over the city. One unique feature of the city library is its facade that illuminates in a vibrant blue color in the darkness of the evening.\n\nA visit is highly recommended. The \"temple of books\" is a standout among libraries worldwide. The architecture firm Eun Young Yi received numerous awards for this impressive work, including the title of \"Library of the Year\" in 2013. The Stuttgart City Library at Mailänder Platz is a central library with 16 branch locations.\n\nUnfortunately, a new big - and ugly - hotel got construction right in front of this hightlight. So you wont see it anymore from the streets. What a shame!\n\n"},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fpaul-menz-eYwHP99Nd0Y-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=8c0172d4-2191-41ab-997d-8c305111bd3c"}]},{"address":"Hauptbahnhof","location":{"longitudeDelta":0.12139648641986404,"latitudeDelta":0.09219986310369421,"latitude":48.78462274827687,"longitude":9.178825998133826},"media":[{"type":"text","content":"You may think: What shall I do here at the Stuttgart main ?"},{"type":"audio","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2FAufnahme%20(19).m4a?alt=media&token=bfd15477-6d69-4d0b-9cfc-7fa404ccb3b2"},{"type":"text","content":"station? This huge construction is famous in Germany... but not only in good terms..."},{"type":"img","content":"https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/freeguides-prod.appspot.com/o/assets%2Ftours%2F72DuBIwGwQrB2XUN6viF%2Fchristian-wiediger-vCe_I1tWWD8-unsplash.jpg?alt=media&token=ea2d7efa-b7dc-407b-ad7e-be474584a667"},{"type":"text","content":"Here are some of the complaints:"},{"type":"text","content":"High costs: Instead of 6.5 billion euros, the station and the new Wendlingen-Ulm railway line will cost at least ten billion euros. The expenses will be burdened on taxpayers.\n\nWorse connections: Stuttgart 21 only provides shorter travel times towards Munich with the new railway line. This could be achieved with only about ten percent of the planned expenditure through a more efficient timetable and straightening out curvy sections. Then the old station could remain. In the through-station of Stuttgart 21, trains cannot wait for each other anymore, as only one to two minutes are allocated for stops in order to handle the traffic with only eight tracks.\n\nLoss of culture: The main station, built between 1914 and 1928 by Paul Bonatz and Friedrich Eugen Scholer, has been under monument protection since. The German Railways plans to demolish parts of it.\n\nLess capacity: The Stuttgart 21 railway project envisions a reduction from 16 to eight tracks, or from eight to four platforms. The underground station has only four access tracks, one less than the current terminus station. Moreover, not all platforms can be reached from all access tracks at Stuttgart 21. Crossings in the access tracks further reduce the capacity. Additionally, the capacity of the underground station cannot be expanded afterwards.\n\nWrong planning: The usage of the new railway line was calculated based on twice as many trains as currently running. The planning assumed light and fast freight trains, while the trend in freight transport is towards long and heavy trains that cannot cope with the gradients of the new route.\n\nOther projects are being postponed: Due to the high cost of Stuttgart 21, other construction projects such as the Rhine Valley Railway, which connects the North Sea and the Mediterranean as the most important freight route in Germany, are being neglected.\n\n"},{"type":"text","content":"And here we come to our last and final spot. I hope you liked it - maybe you can send me s few euro to get a beet at Hans im Glück Brunnen :)"},{"type":"text","content":"Take care on your journey home. Auf wiedersehen!"}]}]
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Lukas P.
Germany

Born and raised in Dusseldorf, Germany. But now living in Stuttgart. I love to travel and explore :)

Meet Your Guide
5.0
rating
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followers
Lukas P.
Germany

Born and raised in Dusseldorf, Germany. But now living in Stuttgart. I love to travel and explore :)

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