Ludwigsstadt, St
Contact
- Person
- Stadtverwaltung Ludwigsstadt
- Street
- Lauensteiner Straße 1
- Zip
- 96337 Ludwigsstadt
- Country
- Germany
- Phone
- +49 9263 949-0
- Web
- https://www.ludwigsstadt.de
- info@ludwigsstadt.de
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About
Our Landmarks
Ludwigsstadt – Small-town charm on the Green Belt
Ludwigsstadt lies in the far north of Upper Franconia, right on the Green Belt and directly on the border with Thuringia. Nestled in an attractive low-mountain landscape, the region—with its forests, valleys, and ridgelines—is especially inviting for hiking and experiencing nature. A geographical peculiarity: Ludwigsstadt is the only municipality in the Free State of Bavaria that lies north of the well-known long-distance hiking trail Rennsteig. This ridge trail across the heights of the Thuringian Forest and the Northern Franconian Forest crosses Federal Highway 85 at Steinbach am Wald, coming from Spechtsbrunn or Tettau, and leads back into Thuringia south of Lehesten.
History with a long tradition
Ludwigsstadt was first documented on June 24, 1269—then still as “Ludewichsdorf.” In the Latin document, among others, a “Ludwig, reeve of Ludewichsdorf” is mentioned, who had his seat here. Historians suspect that the place name goes back to this reeve, even if this is not conclusively proven. Also historically noteworthy is that Ludwigsstadt, like the entire Lauenstein administrative district, belonged to the Kingdom of Prussia between 1792 and 1803 and only passed to the then Electorate of Bavaria after the state and border exchange treaty of June 30, 1803.
Border location, railway, and a distinctive character
The municipal area of the small town, home to around 3,400 inhabitants, is completely enclosed by Thuringia to the west, east, and north. During the decades of Germany’s division, this location led to pronounced isolation at the heavily guarded border with the GDR. At the same time, the railway station played an important role as a border station (rail border crossing Ludwigsstadt/Probstzella): the key rail connection from Munich to Berlin ran through the town and was heavily used even during the division.
A slate town with character
Geologically and in terms of cultural history, Ludwigsstadt is closely linked to slate—a raw material traditionally used in the region, for example for writing slates as well as for roof and wall cladding. On a walk through the town, the typical slate-roofed houses quickly catch the eye, giving the place its unmistakable Franconian-Thuringian character. Ludwigsstadt combines small-town idyll with a rural feel—quiet, authentic, and at the same time welcoming.
A town center that invites you to linger
In recent years, the town center has visibly continued to develop: extensive urban development measures have significantly enhanced the center. Light, friendly paving has replaced the previously dominant asphalt surface in many places, creating an inviting atmosphere. Short-term parking zones make it easier to visit shops and service providers, while planted islands with seating offer space for encounters, conversations, and breaks.
Leisure, clubs, and community
With around 100 clubs, Ludwigsstadt has an exceptionally diverse club scene. The range of sports extends from soccer, basketball, swimming, fishing, table tennis, and karate to Zumba, model flying, sport shooting, and, most recently, darts as well. The town is also culturally active: three music clubs and four choral societies shape musical life. A strong sign of cohesion and commitment is also set by the six local fire brigades and the BRK volunteer unit, where community and assistance are at the forefront.
Swimming fun and local recreation
A special project for the coming years is the new outdoor pool, scheduled for completion in 2026. Plans include, among other things, a wide wave slide, a climbing wall, a diving tower, and a spacious children’s play area—complemented by attractive sunbathing and seating areas. Until it opens, swimmers can use the indoor pool at the elementary school.
Working, living, and modern infrastructure
Ludwigsstadt is often underestimated as a business location: more than 1,200 jobs are provided locally by companies from a wide range of sectors. Some businesses look back on a long tradition—such as Wela-Trognitz and L.A. Schmitt Cosmetics, which are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. At the same time, Ludwigsstadt is digitally very well positioned: 99.9% of all households have broadband connections of more than 100 Mbit/s—ideal conditions for working from home as well.
Ludwigsstadt is also attractive as a place to live: in the town center and the districts there are more than 20 immediately available building plots; plot prices are in some cases below €40/m². Those who prefer existing properties will find older buildings and existing real estate at fair prices. The town additionally supports owners through free renovation consultations and a municipal funding program.
Family-friendly and close to everyday life
For families, Ludwigsstadt offers reliable childcare with three kindergartens as well as an after-school care center at the elementary school—in modern, child-friendly rooms and with short distances.
Ludwigsstadt at a glance
Ludwigsstadt is a town with history, slate charm, and a special location on the Green Belt—shaped by nature, border history, and a vibrant community. Anyone looking for peace and quiet, scenery, an active club culture, and good conditions for living and working will find a place here that convincingly combines tradition and modern quality of life.
Sightseeing
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