Stuttgart is the capital of the south western state of Baden-Württemberg and is possibly Europe's greenest urban area. More than two thirds of the city is covered in parkland, gardens, or woodlands. This can be seen clearly from Stuttgart's 217-meter tall television tower, world's first broadcasting tower, built in the hills of Degerloch.

Stuttgart is the gateway to the Black Forest, and the Swabian Alps which stretch into Bavaria as far as Munich. The city is also the opulent home of German auto giants Mercedes and Porsche as well as designer fashion label Hugo Boss. Industry and commerce has played a dominant role in the affluence of the city, giving Stuttgart the highest per capita income of any city in Germany.

The city of Stuttgart, surrounded by a wonderful panorama of rolling green hills, forests and vineyards, is an interesting blend of old and new. The Romans built a citadel around 90 AD in the lush valley of what is now present-day Stuttgart.

A powerhouse of German industry

The name of the city itself comes from a stud farm owned by the Duke of Swabia in the 14th century, a historical legacy that can still be seen on the city's coat of arms today in the image of a horse. The mid-19th Century witnessed the beginning of Stuttgart's rise to its position as one of the largest urban centers in Germany and modern Stuttgart is one of Europe's major industrial bases.

While the city features many examples of industrial power, its historical roots remain wonderfully intact. Schlossplatz and the Neues Schloss form a grand square in the city center while the ornate Königstrasse is now one of the longest shopping Boulevard's in Germany.

An abundance of art and culture

As with most German cities, Stuttgart has an abundance of museums exhibiting artifacts and artworks from around the globe. The Bohemian quarter in the old town gives the city an ancient beating heart with wine bars, popular pubs and antique shops attracting thousands of visitors. Stuttgart is also renowned for its ballet and orchestra.

The city arguably has one of the most beautiful settings in Europe. The city itself plays host to includes two chateaux while the Staatagalerie houses one of Germany's best art collections. It includes work by the German Expressionists in addition to Bauhaus and Blaue Reiter group artists. Baden-Wuerttemberg's state capital is also a top venue for hit musicals.

Soccer is in Stuttgart's blood

The local soccer club VfB Stuttgart is a consistently strong contender in the First Division of Germany's Bundesliga. They have fared well in recent years in both domestic competition and in Europe club championships. Their home, the impressive Gottlieb-Daimler stadium seats 54,500 spectators and is currently being refurbished for the World Cup. Six different matches will be held in Stuttgart during the tournament.