Esslingen facts for kids

Esslingen usually refers to Esslingen am Neckar, a beautiful city in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It is the capital city of the Esslingen district. This historic city is famous for its old buildings, especially its many half-timbered houses, and its long history. Esslingen sits right on the Neckar River, which adds to its charm.

What is Esslingen am Neckar?

Esslingen am Neckar is a city in southern Germany. It is located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) southeast of Stuttgart, a much larger city. The city is known for its medieval old town and its rich past. Many people visit Esslingen to see its unique architecture and enjoy its friendly atmosphere.

A Look at Esslingen's History

Esslingen has a very long history, dating back to Roman times. It was first mentioned in official documents in the year 777 AD. For many centuries, Esslingen was a Free Imperial City. This meant it was directly under the rule of the Holy Roman Emperor, not a local duke or count. This special status gave the city a lot of freedom and helped it grow rich through trade.

Important Dates in Esslingen's Past

• 777 AD: Esslingen is first mentioned in official records.
• 1229: It becomes a Free Imperial City. This was a very important step for its independence.
• 1802: Esslingen loses its status as a Free Imperial City and becomes part of Württemberg.
• World War II: The city was lucky and did not suffer much damage during the war. This is why so many old buildings are still standing today.

Famous Buildings and Sights

Esslingen is like an open-air museum because of its many old buildings. Walking through the city, you can see structures from different centuries.

The Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) is one of the most famous buildings. It has a beautiful Renaissance facade and a special astronomical clock. This clock shows not only the time but also the positions of the sun and moon.

Esslingen Castle

High above the city stands Esslingen Castle (Esslinger Burg). It is not a typical castle but rather a fortified wall with towers. It was built to protect the city and its vineyards. You can walk up to the castle for amazing views of Esslingen and the Neckar valley.

Saint Dionys Church

The Saint Dionys Church (Stadtkirche St. Dionys) is another important landmark. It is a large Gothic church with two tall towers. You can even walk between the two towers on a bridge high above the ground!

Esslingen Today: A Modern City with Old Roots

Today, Esslingen am Neckar is a lively city with a mix of old and new. It is a center for education and business. The city is also known for its wine production, especially sparkling wine. The vineyards around Esslingen are some of the oldest in Germany.

Education and Economy

Esslingen is home to the Esslingen University of Applied Sciences. This university attracts many students and helps make the city a hub for technology and engineering. Many companies in the automotive and mechanical engineering sectors have offices here.

Festivals and Events

The city hosts several popular events throughout the year. The medieval market and Christmas market are especially famous. During these events, the old town comes alive with crafts, food, and entertainment, making you feel like you've stepped back in time.

Other Places Named Esslingen

While Esslingen am Neckar is the most well-known, the name Esslingen can also refer to other places:

• Esslingen (district): This is the larger administrative area (like a county) that Esslingen am Neckar is part of.
• Esslingen, Switzerland: A small village located in the canton of Zurich, Switzerland.
• Eßlingen: A municipality in western Germany, spelled with a different German letter (ß instead of ss).