Rietheim-Weilheim: A Profile of the Baden-Württemberg Municipality
Nestled in the district of Tuttlingen within the state of Baden-Württemberg, Rietheim-Weilheim is a German municipality that blends historical village charm with modern local administration. Situated at an elevation of 682 meters, this community serves as a representative example of the rural landscapes and administrative structures found in southwestern Germany.
The municipality is characterized by its dual-village structure, combining the distinct identities of Rietheim and Weilheim into a single administrative entity. This union allows the community to maintain its agricultural roots while providing coordinated governance for its residents.
Key Facts
- Location: Tuttlingen district, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
- Total Population: 2,962 (as of December 31, 2024).
- Total Area: 11.98 square kilometers.
- Current Mayor: Felix Cramer von Clausbruch (FDP).
- Historical Roots: First mentioned in documents dating back to 786 AD.
- Composition: Formed by the merger of Rietheim and Weilheim villages.
History and Evolution
The origins of the area date back over a millennium. Both Rietheim (originally known as Reothaim) and Weilheim (originally Amalpertiwilare) were first documented in a record written in Dürbheim on January 15, 786. The name Rietheim is particularly descriptive, as its various spellings over the centuries have consistently referred to the reed plant, a grass-like vegetation common to the region.
The modern administrative structure of the town was established on January 1, 1975. This merger was part of the broader Municipal reform of Baden-Württemberg, a state-wide initiative during the late 1960s and 1970s designed to streamline local governance by joining smaller villages into larger, more efficient municipalities.
Demographics and Geography
Rietheim-Weilheim is divided into its two constituent historical villages, each with distinct geographic profiles. Rietheim is the larger of the two, with a population of 1,793 residents. It covers an area of 688 hectares, which is split between 210 hectares of forest and 478 hectares comprising agricultural fields and residential areas.
Weilheim is smaller in both scale and population, housing 1,138 residents across an area of 510 hectares. Together, these villages create a community with a population density of 247.2 people per square kilometer.
Local Governance and Politics
The political leadership of the municipality has seen a recent transition. Jochen Arno served as mayor from 2007 to 2023, during which time he also held the mayoralty of Hausen ob Verena from 2016 to 2023.
On March 12, 2023, Felix Cramer von Clausbruch of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) was elected as the new mayor. The election saw a voter turnout of 57.56%, with 1,306 of the 2,269 eligible voters participating. Cramer von Clausbruch won the election with 873 votes (66.85%), while Jochen Karl received 426 votes (32.62%).
Municipality Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| State / District | Baden-Württemberg / Tuttlingen |
| Total Area | 11.98 km² |
| Population (2024) | 2,962 |
| Elevation | 682 m |
| Postal Code | 78604 |
| Dialling Code | 07424 |
| Vehicle Registration | TUT |
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the municipality of Rietheim-Weilheim officially formed?
The municipality was created on January 1, 1975, through the merger of the villages of Rietheim and Weilheim as part of the Baden-Württemberg municipal reforms.
What is the historical meaning of the name Rietheim?
The name Rietheim, and its earlier form Reothaim, refers to the reed plant, a type of grass-like vegetation.
Who is the current mayor of Rietheim-Weilheim?
The current mayor is Felix Cramer von Clausbruch (FDP), who was elected on March 12, 2023.
How is the land used in the Rietheim section of the municipality?
In Rietheim, the 688-hectare area is divided into 210 hectares of forest and 478 hectares of agricultural fields and populated areas.
What are the coordinates for Rietheim-Weilheim?
The municipality is located at 48°01′33″N 08°46′27″E.