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Bad Reichenhall is a spa town and the administrative capital of the Berchtesgadener Land region in Upper Bavaria, Germany. This charming locale serves as the administrative center of the Berchtesgadener Land district, offering visitors and residents alike a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities.
Situated near the Austrian border and in close proximity to Salzburg, Bad Reichenhall occupies a strategic position within a basin encircled by majestic alpine peaks. The town’s geography is defined by its surrounding mountains, including the imposing Mount Staufen, which reaches an elevation of 1,771 meters, and the equally impressive Mount Zwiesel, standing tall at 1,781 meters. These natural sentinels not only provide a breathtaking panorama but also play a crucial role in shaping the town’s climate and ecosystem.
The urban landscape of Bad Reichenhall extends over an area of 42.04 square kilometers, encompassing a diverse tapestry of environments. Within this expanse, 568 hectares are dedicated to residential and traffic areas, ensuring the town’s inhabitants enjoy modern living spaces while maintaining efficient transportation networks. The majority of the land, however, is dominated by lush forest areas, covering an impressive 2,547 hectares. This verdant canopy not only contributes to the region’s natural beauty but also plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and providing recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Agriculture, too, holds a significant place in Bad Reichenhall’s landscape, with 588 hectares devoted to cultivated fields and pastures. This agricultural presence not only supports local food production but also helps preserve the traditional Bavarian rural character that is so integral to the town’s identity. The town’s hydrological features are equally noteworthy, with 171 hectares of water areas adding to the scenic allure and ecological diversity of the region. Additionally, 35 hectares are specifically designated as recreational areas, underscoring the town’s commitment to providing spaces for leisure and relaxation for both residents and visitors.
The layout of Bad Reichenhall is a testament to thoughtful urban planning, with the town stretching 8.18 kilometers from northwest to southeast and an impressive 13.08 kilometers from northeast to southwest. This configuration allows for a harmonious integration of urban amenities with the surrounding natural environment, creating a living space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Bad Reichenhall’s claim to fame extends beyond its natural beauty, as the town has long been renowned as a traditional center of salt production. This industry, which has shaped the economic and cultural landscape of the region for centuries, relies on an ingenious process of evaporating water saturated with salt from brine ponds. The town’s salt-making heritage is not merely a relic of the past but continues to be an integral part of its identity and economy.
The town’s geographical features play a crucial role in defining its character. The Saalach River flows through the Reichenhall Basin, carving a path that has influenced settlement patterns and economic activities throughout history. The surrounding mountains not only provide a stunning backdrop but also create a unique microclimate that contributes to the town’s appeal as a health resort.
To the south, the Predigtstuhl mountain stands as a silent guardian, while the more distant Untersberg massif looms to the east, both forming part of the broader Berchtesgaden Alps. The northern skyline is dominated by the Hochstaufen, flanked by the Fuderheuberg and the Zwiesel, creating a natural amphitheater that cradles the town. To the southwest, the Gebersberg and Müllnerberg, part of the Chiemgau Alps, complete the mountainous embrace that defines Bad Reichenhall’s setting.
The town’s elevation varies significantly across its terrain. The train station, a hub of connectivity, sits at 470 meters above sea level, serving as a reference point for the town’s topography. In stark contrast, the highest building within the town limits is the Reichenhaller Haus, perched just below the summit of the Hochstaufen at an impressive altitude of 1,750 meters. This structure not only offers breathtaking views but also stands as a testament to human ingenuity in adapting to and thriving in challenging alpine environments.
Perhaps the most elevated accessible point for visitors is found “Auf dem Predigtstuhl,” soaring above 1,500 meters. This lofty location is home to the mountain station of the Predigtstuhlbahn, complete with a restaurant and hotel that offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. The Predigtstuhlbahn itself is a marvel of engineering and a living piece of history, holding the distinction of being the oldest original large-cabin cable car in the world. Inaugurated in 1928, this remarkable feat of transportation has been meticulously preserved, with its valley and mountain stations, as well as the cable car technology, remaining largely unchanged since its inception.
The administrative structure of Bad Reichenhall reflects the complexity of its landscape and history. The town is divided into eleven community parts spread across five districts, each with its own unique character and contributions to the overall tapestry of the municipality. This division allows for efficient governance while preserving the distinct identities of different areas within the town.
Bad Reichenhall’s commitment to sustainable development and alpine cooperation is evident in its participation in the Alpine Town of the Year Association. This engagement demonstrates the town’s dedication to implementing the Alpine Convention, a treaty aimed at promoting sustainable development in the Alpine arc. The town’s efforts in this regard were recognized in 2001 when it was awarded the prestigious title of Alpine Town of the Year, a testament to its successful balance of economic development, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship.
The town’s evolution as a spa destination is deeply intertwined with its history and natural resources. The Grand Hotel Axelmannstein and the Kur-Apotheke stand as enduring symbols of the early days of Bad Reichenhall’s spa industry. The mid-19th century saw visionaries like hotelier Ernst Rinck and pharmacist-mayor Mathias Mack spearheading efforts to establish the town as a premier health resort. Their legacy is evident in the current incarnation of the Axelmannstein, rebuilt between 1909 and 1911, and the Kur-Apotheke, which has occupied its place on Ludwigstrasse since 1872.
Central to Bad Reichenhall’s identity as a spa town are its meticulously designed gardens and health facilities. The spa gardens, a verdant oasis in the heart of the town, were originally laid out by Carl von Effner in 1868. These gardens have evolved over time, incorporating new elements that enhance their therapeutic and aesthetic value. The graduation house, constructed in 1910, replaced earlier graduation towers and serves as an innovative open-air inhalation facility. Alongside it, the promenade hall and concert rotunda, built in 1912, provide spaces for relaxation and cultural events.
The architectural landscape of Bad Reichenhall is further enriched by structures like the Royal Spa House, dating back to 1900, and the State-Municipal Spa House, erected in 1928. These buildings, designed by renowned architect Max Littmann, reflect the town’s adaptation to changing times and its continued commitment to providing world-class spa facilities.
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