Portus medal bestowed upon historian Christoph Timm by the city of Pforzheim.
Christoph Timm Honoured with Portus Medal for His Dedication to Pforzheim's Cultural Heritage
Christoph Timm, a retired monument conservator, has been recognised for his significant contributions to Pforzheim's cultural heritage. The city's Reuchlin-Beauftragter, Timm's role involves stewardship and promotion of Pforzheim’s historical monuments and the legacy of Johannes Reuchlin, a renowned humanist connected to the city.
Timm's contributions to Pforzheim's cultural heritage are considered invaluable. Over his tenure, he managed numerous heritage projects, co-founded the Museum Johannes Reuchlin, and played a crucial role in the creation of the Archaeological Museum, showcasing the Roman beginnings of the city.
The Portus Medal, a testament to the Roman history that can still be admired in Pforzheim today, was bestowed upon Timm in recognition of his exceptional professional and civic engagement. The award, given to remarkable personalities since the late 1990s, reflects the city's appreciation for Timm's 40 years of service.
In his acceptance speech, Timm quoted: "Wonder at the wonders that surround you. So you will never stop wondering - especially not in Pforzheim." This sentiment encapsulates Timm's enthusiasm for contributing to the development of the city.
As the chairman of the "Friends of the Castle Church" association, Timm continues to be actively involved in preserving and promoting Pforzheim’s cultural sites. His dedication to the Reuchlin memorial is evident in his numerous articles and lectures on Johannes Reuchlin.
Mayor Peter Boch praised Timm's service to the city, presenting the Portus Medal to the historian. Timm expressed his gratitude for the award, emphasising his commitment to Pforzheim's cultural heritage.
The term "Portus" in the medal's name is a reference to the Latin word for harbor or marketplace, likely derived from the city's name. This nod to Pforzheim's Roman origins underscores the city's rich history and Timm's role in preserving it for future generations.
Timm's dedication to Pforzheim's cultural heritage extends beyond historic monuments, as he also co-founded the Museum Johannes Reuchlin, creating a space that reflects the city's home-and-garden of history and culture. In addition, his enthusiasm for contributing to the city's development is evident in his contributions to the "Friends of the Castle Church" association, which focus on home-and-garden preservation, as well as through his lifestyle of writing articles and delivering lectures on Johannes Reuchlin.
