Schlossplatz is the heart of Stuttgart — a large, open square flanked by the New Palace on the east, the Kunstmuseum on the west, and the old royal gardens (Schlossgarten) stretching north toward the main train station. The central Jubilee Column, erected in 1841, rises above fountains and benches where Stuttgart residents eat lunch and students gather on sunny days.
The square was badly damaged in World War II and the surrounding buildings — including both palaces — had to be extensively rebuilt. The current appearance is largely postwar reconstruction, though it follows the original layouts. In summer, outdoor events and food festivals use the open space; in December, an Advent market fills it with stalls and lights.
Schlossplatz connects naturally to a walking circuit of Stuttgart's center: north to the Staatstheater and Kunstmuseum, east into the New Palace courtyard, south down Königstrasse to the main shopping street. Everything is within 15 minutes on foot.