Erwin-Schöttle-Platz

Under the shadow of Heslach Cathedral

In the neighbourhood of St. Matthew's Church, Erwin-Schoettle-Platz is now a central meeting place in Heslach. No matter whether on weekdays or public holidays - the square is always lively. This square is named after the social democratic politician Erwin Schoettle (1899-1976). He was born in Leonberg, joined the SPD as a typesetter in 1919 and was party secretary in Stuttgart from 1931. He was forced into exile in Switzerland by German fascism in 1933, from where he organised the resistance. Between 1936 and 1946, Schoettle lived in England before becoming regional chairman of the SPD after Germany's liberation from the Nazi dictatorship.

During the summer heat, the ‘Heslacher Hocker’ offers a nice way to cool off - a sculpture of a fountain carved out of stone and surrounded by six fountains. It symbolises the Nesenbach stream, the original viticulture in the area and the Heslacher Hocketse. Diagonally opposite St Matthew's Church is the Café Südlage. The African Festival, which takes place every year on Schöettle-Platz, has become an institution. With a great music and cultural programme in the middle of summer, the festival has become a must for all fans of African culture! Only a few metres down Böblinger Strasse Heslach opposite the Heslach Youth Centre is the Schurr pastry shop and café. The Schurr is pretty much the exact opposite of Starbucks and the like - everything here is old school in the best sense of the word. But the quality of the cakes, the flavour and texture of the ice creams, which have been made in-house since 1959, and the aroma of the coffee flowing from the old Gaggia machine are so convincing that younger guests, who appreciate such timeless delights, are increasingly mingling with the mostly older clientele.