Creation of the Fairy-Tale Garden

In 1957, Albert Schöchle, founder of Blühendes Barock, traveled to the Netherlands in search of animals for the park. Near Tilburg, he happened upon a small fairy-tale garden. The lovingly crafted scenes fascinated him and sparked an idea: Why not create a place in Ludwigsburg that would captivate children and attract new visitors at the same time?

At the time, Blühendes Barock was struggling financially. Schöchle recognized the potential of a fairy-tale garden as a family attraction. His concept was deliberately designed to appeal across generations – winning back parents and grandparents through the enthusiasm of their children.

Initially, his idea met with skepticism. Critics feared it might seem too whimsical and out of place in the formal Baroque setting. But with persistence, conviction, and a clear understanding of the spirit of his time, Schöchle gradually persuaded the decision-makers.

On May 16, 1959, the Ludwigsburg Fairy-Tale Garden opened – not a copy of its Dutch inspiration, but a unique and imaginative creation carefully tailored to its surroundings. The success was overwhelming: visitor numbers soared, revenues increased, and the Fairy-Tale Garden became the financial savior of the park.

Over the years, the garden continued to grow. New scenes and attractions were added, yet Schöchle’s guiding principle remained unchanged: a place where imagination comes to life – for children, their families, and all who stroll through with an open heart.

Albert Schöchle once summed up his philosophy in a single sentence:
“The smile of a child and the joyful sparkle in their eyes mean more to me than the nod of a hundred bearded men.”

A sentiment that continues to shape the Fairy-Tale Garden to this day.