The Stuttgart deposit of travertine is unique in Germany. Even in ancient times, people here, especially the Romans, used the quickly available limestone. Since the end of the 19th century, travertine has been mined industrially in the Hallschlag district. The quarry was operated until 2007. But what to do with a quarry in the city that is no longer in use? The geologically and ecologically significant area was rededicated and is now a recreation area, open-air museum and biotope all in one.
Machinery and railroad tracks of the former quarries have been integrated into the park design, and information boards report on the industrial history of the travertine park. The historical significance of travertine is high. For example, the limestone from Bad-Cannstatt has been used for buildings far beyond Stuttgart's city limits over the last two centuries. 14 stone contemporary witnesses can be seen below the park. The "Lauster Columns" were commissioned by the city of Berlin in 1936 for a Mussolini monument, but were never removed.
In addition to preserving historical references, great importance was placed on protecting the habitat of endangered species when planning the park. A biotope was created for the resident wall and fence lizards. A newly created natural pond below the quarry serves as an optimal habitat for them.
