The industrial culture

In the mid-19th century, every child in Rottweil knew the name of Max von Duttenhofer. A chemist’s son, he recognised the business opportunity provided by the well-established Rottweil tradition of gunpowder manufacture. He converted an old gunpowder mill into an internationally active factory.

The invention of smokeless gunpowder, the so-called “Rottweil chemical gunpowder”, brought about the company’s breakthrough. Von Duttenhofer became a tycoon and dominating captain of the regional industry. In 1890, the company produced 6,000 tons of gunpowder with a staff of 854 workers. Von Duttenhofer was a great networker. He was knowledgeable in many other fields, such as horticulture, and is considered one of the sponsors of the cultural life of his times.

After the first World War, the factory discontinued the production of gunpowder and manufactured artificial silk and viscose. In the 1930s, the industrial complex comprised approximately 140 houses which are now listed buildings. After the industrial complex had been left to decline for five decades and even the demolition of the entire factory was under discussion, refurbishment started in the 1980s – to the great benefit of the town.

Now, the Kraftwerk Rottweil, the old power station with its impressive façade, majestic staircase and 90-metre-high chimneys is a part of the complex. What used to be the place where electricity and hot water was produced to supply the whole valley is now a concert stage for international rock stars and DJs at their turntables. Today, the Kraftwerk is one of the top wedding and event locations in the region.

The numerous factory buildings and housing blocks for the workers have also been reinvented. Now, craftspeople, artists and start-up companies love the special flair of the ancient walls of the former factory complex. Guided tours through the Neckartal industrial park provide intimate insights into the lives of the workmen in the old factory.