Just Before Gentrification

Mannheim Jungbusch

The history of the Mannheim suburb Jungbusch has changed a few times over the year. It was a large cemetery for victims of the black death during the 17th century and consequently was a neglected area in the times to follow despite its central location. After the straightening of the Rhein and a harbour development it became a an area where ship owners, captains, and merchants settled in the late 19th century. Large parts of Mannheim were destroyed during World War II but this suburb and the buildings from the Wilhelminian time survived – leaving lots of old structures. Then came the decline and the Jungbusch came to be known as the redlight district of Mannheim. The old warehouses closer to the river have deteriorated but some have given way to new buildings, commercial and residential. The old residential houses are being renovated. In short: gentrification is on the horizon with all the good and bad effects of the local inhabitants.

Linked to Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge: Urban Erosion.

Bringing Up Baby

Our cat Henry is no leopard. Mr Eklastic and I are no Gary Grant and Katherine Hepburn either. Then again, if Howard Hawks had directed us who knows …

That’s my last movie square and my favourite – because Henry who was so cute when he was a baby and because I love screwball comedies. And the German title of the movie is Leopards shouldn’t be kissed when translated back.

UP Square #12.

Bringing in some colour

Rathaus Lützelsachsen

It used to be that half timbered meant dark wood and white washed panels in between but in recent years colour has come into play.

At first it took me a bit to get used to it but when it works, it works.

Linked to Monday Window.