Pforzheim: The controversy around the ugliest city of Baden-Württemberg

Pforzheim: The controversy around the ugliest city of Baden-Württemberg

in the heart of Baden-Württemberg is Pforzheim, a city that is not exactly known for its beauty. The debate about which city in Germany is the most unattractive is often cited by Pforzheim. Despite the picturesque environment, which shapes many cities in this region, Pforzheim is often criticized because of its gray concrete architecture and the lifeless urban landscape.

Last year, the city was stamped by users on Reddit as the ugliest in Baden-Württemberg and one of the most unattractive all over Germany. The negative impressions seem to have persisted and have recently been discussed again in a Reddit thread. The simple, soulless architecture, which is characterized by the destruction in World War II, was particularly discussed when many historical buildings were irrevocably lost.

Pforzheim's architecture in criticism

A particularly remarkable comment on Reddit received 663 upvotes and pointed out that architecture students were shown how to do it. Such statements reflect the image that many of the urban design have. After the war, numerous destroyed buildings were replaced by inexpensive post -war buildings that are now perceived as unattractive. This means that Pforzheim is considered many in the eyes of many as an example of misguided urban planning. One user even noted that the idea of leaving was so deeply rooted that the escape rooms in the city were above average family.

Not all commentators are critical. Some users also see the positive sides of Pforzheim. The statements about the city center clarify that there are certainly appealing corners. "The city center is very nice, you can also jog or ride a bike on the river and are out of the city relatively quickly," remarked one user. Another emphasized the good schools and the cultural possibilities that are available in the city.

The experiences of the residents

The reviews do not come without a touch of humor. Some users sarcastically refer to the flawless planning of the city. "The block edge development was demolished in the 1960s and put on soulless prefabricated buildings, but there are narrow green strips with" entering "signs" in between, is another ironic note that draws the image of a city that seems torn between modern urban planning and nostalgic memories of another time.

Pforzheim is not only in its unfortunate position within the popularity scale. There are numerous cities in Baden-Württemberg that are also mentioned in such discussions. A survey on Facebook from the previous year has compiled the representative cities, which are often considered unattractive

Overall, the discussion about Pforzheim shows that the city has to fight both with its past and with its presence. While criticism of the city architecture dominates, there is still a small but fine community of residents and users who appreciate the city for its hidden treasures and its quiet corners. Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether the image of Pforzheim will really change in the public's perception, or whether it must continue to bear the "ugliest city", as the discussion on reddit shows .