Locations linked to Hermann Hesse in Calw

Hermann Hesse, the renowned writer and Nobel Prize winner, has left deep traces in his native town of Calw. A visit to the Hermann Hesse sites offers literature lovers and culture enthusiasts the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of the famous author and learn more about his life and work.

Tour through Calw
The walk through the picturesque old town of Calw takes visitors to all the important places associated with Hermann Hesse and his family. These biographically and literarily significant sites provide a fascinating insight into the poet's life and work.

Important places

Birthplace
A highlight of the tour is undoubtedly Hermann Hesse's birthplace. Here, visitors can feel the atmosphere in which the young Hesse grew up and gathered his first literary inspirations.

St. Nicholas Bridge
The Nikolausbrücke was Hesse's favorite place in Calw[1]. It is no coincidence that a Hesse memorial was erected here in 2002. The bridge offers a wonderful view of the old town and the river Nagold.

Hermann Hesse Museum
The Hermann Hesse Museum in Calw is a must for every literature enthusiast. Personal items, photos, books and even watercolors by the writer are on display here, documenting his eventful life.

Activities for visitors

Guided tours
Those interested can take part in guided tours that offer detailed insights into Hesse's life and his connection to Calw. These tours are particularly recommended in order to understand the deeper meaning of the various stations.

Literary walks
For literature lovers, special walks are offered where passages from Hesse's works are read aloud at the places that inspired them. This creates a unique connection between the city and Hesse's literary work.

Hesse readings
Readings from Hesse's works take place regularly in Calw. These events offer the opportunity to experience the author's texts in an authentic setting.

Travel and practical information
Calw is located in the northern Black Forest and is easy to reach by car or public transport. From Stuttgart, the town can be reached in about an hour by train or car.

Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes for a walk through the historic old town. Most of the Hermann Hesse sites can be reached on foot, although some paths can be slightly hilly.

The Hermann Hesse sites in Calw offer a unique opportunity to experience the life and work of one of the most important German writers of the 20th century up close. A visit is worthwhile for anyone interested in literature, culture and history and who wants to enjoy the charm of a typical Black Forest town.