BadenDurlach

Baden-Durlach was a historic state in the southwest of what is now Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It formed as part of the Baden territories during the territorial divisions of the early modern Holy Roman Empire and served as the seat of a branch of the Margraves of Baden. The core of the territory was centered on the town of Durlach, which grew into a fortified town with administrative and ceremonial functions for the ruling line.

The margraves of Baden-Durlach established their residence in Durlach, where architectural and military works were developed to secure the territory. In the early 18th century, the court and many administrative functions moved to Karlsruhe, following the construction of Karlsruhe Palace, and Karlsruhe developed into the political center of the Baden lands. Baden-Durlach remained a distinct territorial entity for some time, but its separate status diminished as the region was reorganized in the subsequent centuries. The territory was eventually incorporated into the evolving state framework that would become the Grand Duchy of Baden and, later, the modern state of Baden-Württemberg.

Today Baden-Durlach survives as a borough and historical region within the city of Karlsruhe in Baden-Württemberg. Its identity is anchored by Durlach’s old town, Schloss Durlach (the castle), and nearby landmarks. The Turmberg hill, visible from the town, is a notable geographic feature accessed by the Turmbergbahn funicular, which remains a popular local attraction. The area is served by Karlsruhe’s tram and regional rail networks, linking it to the broader urban area.

See also: Margraviate of Baden-Durlach, Durlach.