Rheinfelden

History

Rheinfelden (Baden) has a population of over 30,000 and is located in the Southwest of Germany. Its symbol is the Wasserturm (water storage tower) and it is a modern industrial city.

"Rheinfelden brings together" is one of the town's mottos. The bridge leading to the old Zhringen town of Swiss Rheinfelden dates back to 1922. The older twin town of Rheinfelden (Baden) is at least 850 years old.

lt was the construction of the first hydroelectric power Station in Europe (1895-1897) that led to the establishment of Badisch Rhifelde, as the town is also referred to in the local Alemannic dialect.

Rheinfelden (Baden) officially received its town charter in 1922. Fundamental to its present-day status was the community reform that took place from 1972 to 1975. During this time, the surrounding villages of Adelhausen, Degerfelden, Eichsel, Herten, Karsau, Minseln and Nordschwaben were officially incorporated.

We can trace the town's rich cultural history inextricably to these outlying villages. The history of the chapel of St. Mauritius in Nordschwaben with its beautiful baroque altar dates back to the early middle ages.

An annual church procession in Eichsel is based on the Heiligenprozess (trial of canonification), originating in 1504. lt is also known as the festival of the three virgins Kunigundis, Mechthundis and Wibranda, and takes place every third Sunday in July. lt is known well beyond the nearby country borders.

The castle at Beuggen also prides itself in great history, visible in its ancient fortification walls. A stroll into nearby forests may easily lead you to the ancient remains of a Roman farm. You may also stumble across the old Fliehburg (castle of refuge) near Degerfelden.

Economy

Until only a few years ago, it was predominantly heavy industry that made up Rheinfelden's mosaic. Nowadays, however, it is very easy to find companies in the SME sector (small to medium-sized enterprises). In addition to this, a multitude of skilled trade and service companies have made Rheinfelden their preferred choice of location.

The location

Rheinfelden is located on an axis running from North to South. With a direct traffic link to the Basel - Frankfurt motorway and the N3 in Switzerland, Rheinfelden is an ideal vantage point for many excursions. The Swiss airports at Basel and Zurich are only a short drive away.

If you are interested in venturing into natural areas from home during the weekends, you'll be spoilt for choice. The entire network of hiking areas in the Southern Black Forest as well as the Swiss Jura mountains and the French Vosges are less than an hour by car.

Rheinfelden is also situated at the foot of the Dinkelberg. From the City centre, you have easy access to the beauty of this hilly outcrop. This is best done on foot or by bike. The hill at Herten (Hertener Berg) offers a fantastic panoramic view of the Swiss Alps on a fine day. You'll also have the opportunity to try one of the great wines that are produced on these slopes. One the most impressive natural features not to be missed are the Tschamber caves at Karsau.

The town

The Rhine with its shore promenades, the historic town of Swiss Rheinfelden and Beuggen Castle often invite Rheinfelden's inhabitants to a weekend stroll. Needless to say, the people of Rheinfelden know how to celebrate. There us no lack of entertainment, ranging from the traditional street-stall festival Trottoirfest to the Inselfest in Swiss Rheinfelden to the annual Carnival processions.

An active club and associations' engagement links the people of Rheinfelden with each other. Hence, there is always ample opportunity for celebrations and more relaxed get­-togethers throughout the year.

The VHS (adult evening learning centre) has been located in a new and spaciously generous layout since 1990. lt offers a wide range of courses that satisfy the many demands. lt maintains a leading role in providing regional occupational education. The School of Music indeed plays a leading role in the culture of this town, too. The annual series of concerts in the Dietschysaal has long become a popular event among its followers.

Haus Salmegg is situated right on the banks of the River Rhine. lt has gained widespread renown since its initiation as a cultural centre in 1989. lt has also hosted a large number of Art exhibitions.

The Art weeks that take place every spring exemplify the array of local artists, exhibitions and classical and modern music. This event is jointly organised by the Cultural Affairs Department and local clubs and associations.

The Brgersaal (Citizens' Hall) also offers ample scope for various kinds of entertainment.

The city centre springs to life on market days. Farmers offer their fresh produce around the town hall. From local schnapps made from fruits to delicious goats' cheese to vegetables and fresh flowers: this is where you'll always find great satisfaction.

Contact

For further information on our twinning arrangements please contact:

Cabinet Office

Vale of Glamorgan Council

Chief Executives Department

Civic Offices

Holton Road

Barry

CF63 4RU

Tel: +44 (0) 1446 709853

Email: c1v@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk

Website: http://www.rheinfelden-baden.de/