Rüsselsheim – Evolving City with a Changing Name

Once called Rucilesheim in 764, its name has evolved five times to come to what it is today. Historically, it is a wine town with Count John IV of Katzenelnbogen being the first to cultivate Riesling in the city. While it is no longer a major industry, the mayor in 1980 initiated a memory vineyard to celebrate the past. Something unique about this versus other German cities is that since 1961, it has participated in international community partnerships. This leads to the exchange of sports and culture between four communities. The first town in this partnership was Evreux, a French town known for its historical monuments. Rüsselsheim also has an advanced technical college offering courses like automotive and electrical engineering.

Location: In Hesse on the Main

This is the largest city in Groß-Gerau district, and is located on the Main River, just a few kilometers from the mouth in Mainz. This whole area runs along the Rhine Valley, a glacial alpine valley. This leads to the large rolling hills in the region. The weather varies throughout the year, providing true seasons but has beautiful sunny days as well as cold winter days.

Business: It's all About Automobile Manufacturing

Rüsselsheim is most known for the car manufacturer Opel, founded by mechanic Adam Opel, who started his business as a sewing machine factory. The first cars were built in 1899, and the company is still in operation today. Hyundai also operates its European center in the city. Beyond car manufacturing, other international companies have found their home here, like the center of outsourcing for Hewlett-Packard.

Culture: Theatre, Museums, and Art

Like many other places in Germany, the locals love theatre. The local venue seats almost 1,000 and offers concerts, plays, operas, musicals, and ballets. Museums are also a huge part of the town, offering a look into history and culture throughout the years. In fact, Rüsselsheim Museum, which focuses on labor procedures, won an award for "Model Museum.” Finally, art has become popular with residents, and the Opel Villas offer a venue specifically for art presentations of all kinds and double as a wedding venue.

Activities: Take a Tour of the Town and Play

For those who want to delve into everything about the city, there are many unique guided tours offered for visitors. Boat trips take you through the city and into neighboring towns, and a visual guide will help you walk or drive through what is known as "Industry Culture.” This tour lets you view 19 buildings and works of art near the Town and Industry Museum. If you ever get bored or are looking for some romance, Verna Park has English landscape gardens.