Twintowns

A cosmopolitan atmosphere and tolerance have been a tradition in Schwäbisch Hall for a long time. Salt was the foundation for extensive trade relations. The "Heller", a coin, which was minted here, served as a means of payment from the Rhineland to nothern Italy and from the Czech Republic to l'Alsace. After World War II the town strongly committed itself to mutual understanding and reconciliation with its European neighbours.

The partnership with Schwäbisch Hall's twintowns helps to break down anonymity, gives people a face, a voice and a name. Meeting face to face and interacting can establish closer links between people, overcome hostility and prejudice and create mutual trust.

As early as 1964 the twinning link with Epinal in France was established, followed later by Loughborough in England (1966), Lappeenranta in Finland (1985), Neustrelitz in Mecklenburg-Western Pommerania (1988), Zamosc in Polen (1989) and Balikesir in Turkey (2006).

Due to the personal commitment of many citizens these twinning links have become a big success and a lot of friendships have developed in numerous meetings.

The Goethe-Institute, situated in the heart of the city, with students from all over the world, reflects the cosmopolitan atmosphere in a world moving closely together. Today people from more than 100 nations live and work in Schwäbisch Hall - in a colourful, peaceful and open-minded way.

More informations at the Stabstelle twinnings