Pforzheim

Pforzheim is a city in the southwest of Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It is a district-free city situated on the eastern edge of the Northern Black Forest, along the Enz river. The city forms part of the Karlsruhe metropolitan region and serves as an economic and cultural center for the surrounding area.

Historically, Pforzheim developed as a market town and, from the 18th century onward, as a major center of jewelry and watchmaking. Its long-standing jewelry trade earned it the nickname Goldstadt (Golden City).

During World War II, much of the city center was destroyed by Allied bombing in 1945 and had to be rebuilt in the postwar era.

The economy combines a continued jewelry tradition with engineering, manufacturing, and services. The city hosts the Hochschule Pforzheim, a university of applied sciences, and a number of jewelry manufacturers and design studios. Cultural institutions include the Schmuckmuseum, which holds one of the leading jewelry collections in Europe.

The city features a rebuilt historic center, parks, and cultural venues. The Schmuckmuseum and the city’s annual cultural events contribute to its profile.

Pforzheim is connected by rail and road networks and is served by the Pforzheim Hauptbahnhof. The city remains known internationally for its jewelry industry while expanding its educational and cultural offerings.