Au im Hexental: The place with the shortest name in Baden-Württemberg!

Au im Hexental: The place with the shortest name in Baden-Württemberg!

In Baden-Württemberg there are two special places that couldn't be more different: the longest place name and the shortest. While Gschlachtenbretzingen stands out as the longest place name with 18 letters, Au im Hexental trumps with only two letters. These naming curiosities make both places interesting topics for locals and visitors. The Swabian newspaper reports that the name “Au” is derived from the Old High German word “ouwa,” which describes flat, moist meadowland. This fits in perfectly with the natural surroundings of the village.

Au im Hexental, not far from Freiburg, has around 1,500 inhabitants and retains its rural charm. The local farms revolve around dairy farming, cattle and pig breeding, and two horse farms. Despite its small area, the place is also crossed by many streams, which contributes to the idyllic landscape.

The long name and its history

On the other side we find Gschlachtenbretzingen, an idyllic district of Michelbach an der Bilz in the Schwäbisch Hall district. Like the Wikipedia page Wiki explains, this place is only three kilometers from the town center of Schwäbisch Hall on a small plateau. Surrounded by the valleys of the Waschbach and Remsbach, Gschlachtenbretzingen not only offers a rich history, but also a beautiful natural landscape.

The old core of the town is divided into old settlement parts, including the former guard station in the upper hamlet. Historically, the place was divided into two parts in the 19th century, which was also evident in the religious affiliation. With its incorporation into Württemberg in 1806 and the numerous new buildings after the Second World War, the place has continued to develop.

Advantages of the region

Gschlachtenbretzingen is also known for its agricultural character, which dates back to the early 20th century. Ox breeding and viticulture in particular played an important role here. The historic gypsum mining areas are still visible today. This place benefits from its convenient location, although it is now bypassed due to the construction of railways and roads.

The population of Gschlachtenbretzingen has also changed over the years: from 197 in 1895 to 960 in 1979. Today people live in harmonious neighborhoods and the connection to nature is noticeable.

Both places, Au im Hexental and Gschlachtenbretzingen, have their own charm and a unique history that fills their residents with pride. It remains exciting to see how small places like this continue to develop and retain their character.