Stuttgart, the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany, is known for its automotive industry, with both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz having their headquarters and museums there. The city is nestled in a lush valley, surrounded by vine-covered hills and framed by the Black Forest to the west and the Swabian Alb to the south. With roots dating back to the 10th century, Stuttgart has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture and numerous cultural institutions. The Stuttgart State Theatre is renowned for its ballet, opera, and theatre performances. The city is also home to the Schlossplatz, a grand palace square with baroque and classical architecture. Stuttgart is a green city with many parks such as the Schlossgarten, Rosenstein Park, and Killesberg Park. The city's diverse culinary scene, vibrant festivals like the Stuttgart Wine Festival, and the famous Volksfest (second largest beer festival after Oktoberfest) also contribute to its vibrant atmosphere. Stuttgart's hilly topography offers vantage points for scenic views over the city, with the Fernsehturm, a television tower, providing a particularly stunning panorama.
