Glatten

The state-approved health resort of Glatten lies approximately ten kilometers southeast of the county town of Freudenstadt, nestled amid meadows and forests in the northern Black Forest. The town is traversed by the river Glatt, from which it takes its name. The Old High German word glat or glad translates to “clear,” “glossy,” or “pure,” reflecting the character of the water.

The municipality of Glatten comprises the formerly independent communities of Böffingen and Neuneck. The former municipality of Böffingen includes the village itself, along with the settlements known as Bellenstein and Electrical Works. As of December 31, 1973, Glatten also incorporates the village of Glatten, the farm Lattenberg Hammerschmiede, and more local dwellings. Neuneck, once an independent municipality, includes the village of Neuneck, Rinkwasen, Schellenberg farm, and Ziegelacker farm. Within Neuneck’s territory is the deserted village of Gaisnang, where the Gaisweilerhof was the last remaining structure until its abandonment in 1632.^[3]

Both Böffingen and Neuneck retain their status as designated villages according to the Baden-Württemberg municipal code. Each maintains its village council, with a mayor serving as chairperson.

The municipality of Glatten shares borders with several neighboring towns and districts. To the north is Dornstetten, while Schopfloch and Horb are to the east. To the south, Glatten borders the Dornhan district in Rottweil. The southwest boundary meets Loßburg, and to the west is the county town of Freudenstadt.

Glatten was first documented in the year 767 under the names "Glatheim" and "villa Gladeheim," which translate to "Home of the Straight"—with glad or glat meaning shiny, bright, or pure. These names suggest the village's origins date back to the Merovingian period. In 1308, the Count of Hohenberg acquired Glatten, along with Dornstetten, as a pledge from Anna von Fürstenberg and her husband, John of Geroldseck. By 1320, Glatten had become part of the Duchy of Württemberg.

Since the Reformation, ⁣Glatten has been shaped by Protestant traditions. The village's Lutheran church, featuring a bell tower dating back to the 12th century, stands as a defining landmark and symbol of its religious heritage. To this day, there is no Roman Catholic Church in Glatten. However, the New Apostolic Church maintains a presence in the community.