Württemberg-Haus Beutelsbach - Museum Wiege Württembergs und Museum Bauernkrieg

Description

Beutelsbach occupies a unique place in the history of Württemberg. Around 1080, it was the principal seat of the Lords of Beutelsbach, whose first ancestral castle stood on the Kappelberg hill overlooking the village. Later, the family built a new castle in the Neckar Valley, named Württemberg, from which they subsequently took their name.

The Museum "Cradle of Württemberg" is the only museum in the state dedicated to the early history of Württemberg—from its beginnings until around 1320, when Stuttgart became the undisputed capital.

Archaeological finds from Kappelberg Castle, together with paintings, historical documents, and original artefacts from later periods, illustrate Beutelsbach's former importance—once captured in the saying, "In our state, Beutelsbach." The exhibition invites visitors on a journey through the origins of Württemberg.

Beutelsbach made history once again in 1514. It was here that the Poor Conrad (Armer Konrad) uprising began and came to an end—the largest and most significant popular revolt in the years leading up to the German Peasants' War of 1525.

In their struggle to defend their "ancient rights," farmers, townspeople, men, and women across Württemberg united under the ideals of justice and freedom. The museum vividly presents the dramatic events of 1514, explores their connection to the Peasants' War, and traces the enduring themes of civic participation and public protest from the early sixteenth century to the present day.

The Peasants' War Museum has been officially recognised as a Site of German Democratic History by the Foundation for Sites of German Democratic History. A commemorative plaque marking this distinction is displayed on the large information board at the Württemberg House in Beutelsbach, at the foot of the external staircase.

Information and Events

Dr. Bernd Breyvogel
City Archivist and Museum Director
Phone 07151 6045873

Information and Guided Tour Bookings

Yvonne Grundey
Phone 07151 9854798

Guided tours for schools and kindergartens in Weinstadt are offered free of charge.