Pforzheim

Glittering City

Where once craftsmen used to hammer, saw and solder in their small workshops, the arrival of German and foreign goldsmiths over the last centuries has seen the town develop into a unique centre for jewellery and design. With its three rivers and location as a gateway to the Black Forest for cyclists and hikers alike, Pforzheim is a truly culturally diverse city with a whole host to offer. The Pforzheim Jewellery Museum is a globally unique museum dedicated to the history of jewellery. Around 2,000 exhibits trace the last five thousand years of jewellery. Antique, renaissance and Art Nouveau treasures await visitors, along with a unique collection of modern jewellery art from the 1960s to the present day. There is also a clock collection and ethnographic jewellery exhibition. Special exhibitions highlight different aspects of this fascinating industry.
The true centrepiece of the Pforzheim 'Schmuckwelten' (Jewellery World) is the 'Schmuckerlebniswelt' (Jewellery Experience World) which presents the fascinating worlds of gold and precious stones in a breath-taking theme park. Numerous attractions such as the star lift and the golden wall are waiting to be discovered, as are the 5,000 magnificent minerals from all over the world. The Pforzheim Technical Museum of the Jewellery and Clock Industry is a great place for visitors to find out more about the manufacture of clocks and jewellery. Many of the machines are started up and can be seen in action.

From History to Recreation

Pforzheim's most famous building is St. Michael's Schlosskirche church with its impressive Roman west work. It is not only the Margraves of Baden who lie buried here, but it is also the final resting place of the Grand-Duchess Stephanie, Napoleon's adoptive daughter. Right next door, the "Museum Johannes Reuchlin" offers a permanent multimedia exhibition on the life and work of Pforzheim's most famous son, Johannes Reuchlin, the European humanist, linguist and statesman and one of the pioneers of the Enlightenment.
Head South and experience all the advantages of the Black Forest during a day trip. A short car ride away from Pforzheim various activities and relaxation in the green awaits you. But don`t forget to come back. Pforzheim has something for everyone and caters to all ages and tastes. Find out for yourself on your trip to the city!