How One Woman's 40-Year Passion Transformed Ulm's Urban Landscape
A narrow strip of greenery in Ulm has become a local landmark, thanks to decades of care by one dedicated resident. Gudrun Gaber has tended her 90-metre-long garden since 1984, transforming it into a cherished sight for both locals and visitors. The garden stretches roughly 90 metres in length and 8 metres wide, covering about 700 square metres in total. Of this, 200 square metres of the carefully designed green area belong to Gaber, while the remaining 500 square metres of meadow are managed by the city. Features include a small pond with water lilies and frogs, a walnut tree, a fig tree, and a variety of other plantings. Gaber, a retired early childhood educator, worked for Lebenshilfe for over 20 years before retiring. Despite stepping back from her professional role, she remains deeply involved in voluntary work. Her efforts in the garden have shaped Ulm's cityscape, earning recognition from residents and officials alike. Lord Mayor Martin Ansbacher recently praised her commitment, calling her a role model for voluntary engagement. The garden's visibility from the city wall has made it a familiar and beloved spot for decades. Gaber's work has left a lasting mark on Ulm, blending personal passion with public benefit. The garden continues to thrive as a small but significant part of the city's character, maintained by her steady dedication since 1984.
