Stuttgart is a beautiful green town in Germany. From the exquisite former royal residence of the Wilhema that is now a zoo to its many open green spaces, nature lovers will feel the peaceful serenity of Stuttgart parks and nature.
Wilhelma
Stuttgart’s zoo, the Wilhelma, is unique in many ways. It is based on the Moorish style of architecture, particularly that of Spain’s ancient Alhambra Palace. In fact, the zoo was once a palace itself. It is also the only zoo/botanical garden complex in Europe, as well as home to the largest magnolia grove on the continent. Over 8,000 animals now call the Wilhelma home, including their star attraction, the polar bear Wilbär.
The Green U
Taking up an area of 5.6 square km (3.5 square mi), the Green U or Das Grüne U is a massive public park. This Stuttgart nature park encompasses the Schlossplatz in the city center as well as the forests found on the outskirts. The Schloßgarten and Rosenstein Park, famous for its old trees, are both found within this space.
Academy Garden
The Academy Garden was once home to a military academy and university, where the famous German poet Friedrich Schiller attended. The highlight of this Stuttgart park is certainly the Löwenbrunnen (“Lion Fountain”) that was commissioned for King Friedrich of Württemberg by the artist Nicolas von Thouret.
Palace Garden
This royal garden was also created by Nicolas von Thouret, who designed the park from the Neckar River to the New Palace as part of his green vision. The area covers about 3 km (1.8 m) in length and 200 m (656 ft) in width. It is now incorporated into the larger nature park, the Green U.
Hoppenlau Cemetery
Stuttgart’s oldest cemetery dates back to 1626. It was also an important burial ground for the city’s Jewish population. These days, it’s no longer used as a cemetery but treated as another of Stuttgart’s many parks and recreational regions. Take a stroll around this mysterious old place and find the gravestones of famous Stuttgart personalities of old, like Gustav Schwab or Heinrich Dannecker.
City Lapidarium
The City Lapidarium is a green space based on romantic Italian renaissance parks, with its columns and portals. Built for Carl von Ostertag-Siegle, who was connected to the famous industry leader Gustav Siegle through marriage, the marble fountains and sculptures here certainly help to transport you from the bustling streets of Stuttgart to a relaxing countryside villa.
