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The oldest ecclesiastical Baroque residence on the Upper Rhine
Bruchsal Palace
History worth reading about

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Interested in learning more about what happened in this impressive palace long ago? Looking for unusual stories about life in centuries past? Wondering how the monument is managed today? Explore historic snapshots and interesting research findings.

Domed Hall in Bruchsal Palace. Image: Staatliche Schlösser und Gärten Baden-Württemberg, Arnim Weischer
Celebrating to perfection

Life at the court of the prince-bishops of Speyer revolved around the fashion from France. At ceremonies in Bruchsal Palace, there were many rules to follow. 

Baroque "table ceremony"
Peak of the roof with a golden crown at Bruchsal Palace. Image: Landesmedienzentrum Baden-Württemberg, Eberhard Späth
A new beginning

After secularization in 1803, a new, secular ruler sat on the throne in Bruchsal Palace: Karl Friedrich von Baden.

Secularization in Bruchsal
Citizens take over the palace

On November 9, 1918, the republic was proclaimed, including in Baden and Württemberg. Many residential palaces became museums.

The end of the monarchy
View of Bruchsal Palace from the garden side. Image: Staatliche Schlösser und Gärten Baden-Württemberg, Fritz Häcker
The air raid and its consequences

Bruchsal Palace was destroyed on March 1, 1945 and rebuilt after the war—an extraordinary accomplishment.

Destruction and reconstruction
Helmut Kohl und François Mitterrand bei einer Pressekonferenz
Honored guest

As part of the 50th German-French consultation meeting, a joint dinner took place at Bruchsal Palace.

François Mitterrand and Helmut Kohl