The theme was incorporated into the Council of Europe programme in April 1992 and the route is awarded certification as a “Cultural Route of the Council of Europe” on 16 June 2004.
Heinrich Schikhardt (1558-1634) is referred to the “Swabian Da Vinci”. He built churches, castles, schools and mills, and helped to perfect hydraulic systems, water tanks and bridges designed to prevent flooding. His reputation was also made by his work as an engineer and cartographer.
The towns and cities which bear the mark of his work as a planner have decided to establish a trans-frontier route between France and Germany. The main signboards making the route bear writings and drawings by the architect.

European Institute of Cultural Routes
Information source: The Council of Europe Cultural Routes brochure, 2004
Photo: Portrait of Heinrich Schickhardt