Scholar Christoph Timm granted Portus medal by Pforzheim city authorities
In a recent ceremony, Mayor Peter Boch presented the Portus Medal to Christoph Timm, a retired monument conservator and the Reuchlin representative for the city of Pforzheim. The medal, named after the Roman origins of the city, was bestowed upon Timm in recognition of his significant contributions to Pforzheim's cultural heritage.
The Archaeological Museum in Pforzheim, a testament to the city's Roman beginnings, showcases Timm's dedication to preserving the city's history. His professional and civic engagement for Pforzheim has been highly praised by Mayor Boch, with Timm's management of numerous monument projects during his tenure as city monument conservator being particularly noted.
Timm expressed his happiness in being involved in building the city of Pforzheim and thanked Mayor Boch for the Portus Medal. His role as the Reuchlin representative involves maintaining the legacy of Johannes Reuchlin, a notable Renaissance humanist linked to the city. Timm has been actively engaged in public education about heritage, as evidenced by a talk scheduled on October 9, 2023, which combines both online (Zoom) and onsite participation.
Mayor Boch stated that Timm's merits for the city of Pforzheim and its cultural heritage are invaluable. Timm has shared his knowledge of Reuchlin in numerous articles and lectures, and has particularly dedicated himself to the Reuchlin memorial. He is also the chairman of the "Friends of the Castle Church" association and a co-founder of the Museum Johannes Reuchlin.
The Portus Medal has been awarded to special personalities in the city of Pforzheim since the late 1990s. Timm's publications on monument topography further highlight his expertise in protecting and maintaining Pforzheim’s historical buildings and sites. He played a significant part in the creation of the Archaeological Museum in Pforzheim, and the name "Portus" in the Portus Medal refers to the Latin word for harbor or marketplace, a possible origin of the city name Pforzheim.
Timm encourages people to marvel at the wonders of Pforzheim, and his contributions to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting awareness of its history will undoubtedly continue to enrich the city for years to come.
Timm's dedication extends beyond preserving Pforzheim's historical sites to fostering a lifestyle deeply rooted in the city's heritage, transforming it into a fascinating home-and-garden for its inhabitants and visitors alike. His publications and initiatives like the Archaeological Museum and the Museum Johannes Reuchlin contribute significantly to enhancing the local home-and-garden scene, revitalizing the city's history and fostering a meaningful lifestyle.
