District

Kaßberg

The Kaßberg west of the center is considered one of the largest contiguous Wilhelminian and Art Nouveau quarters in Germany. On the hill above the Chemnitz valley, magnificent townhouses line up with richly decorated façades, bay windows, stucco and wrought-iron balconies. The wealth of the industrial city of Chemnitz, which around 1900 was known as the 'Saxon Manchester', is built here in stone. Because the quarter largely survived the war, this intact ensemble has been preserved to this day.

After reunification the Kaßberg faced decay, but elaborate renovations have brought the quarter back. Today it is one of the most sought-after residential areas in the city, with tall period apartments, cafés, small shops and a relaxed, well-heeled atmosphere. Anyone strolling through the streets discovers a different façade detail on every corner and quickly understands why lovers of architecture come here specially.

The Kaßberg also has a serious history: the Kaßberg Prison memorial and learning site recalls its use as a place of detention and a hub for the ransom of GDR political prisoners. So the quarter combines elegant building art, lively neighborhood life and contemporary history in the tightest of spaces and is only a few minutes' walk from the center.