Exactly 1,250 years ago, Bretzenheim was first mentioned by name in a document, making it one of the oldest villages in Rheinhessen. Bretzenheim is also one of the region’s most traditional wine-growing communities, as the document states that Bishop Boniface of Mainz acquired a vineyard here for his monastery in Fulda. The origin of the place name, however, is less certain. In the aforementioned document, Bretzenheim is still referred to as “villa Brittanorum”—a designation that has led to intense speculation among historians.

Later sources then mention the names “Brezzen” or “Brizzenheim.” These likely trace back to a medieval nobleman named Bretzo who lived here. According to the latest research, Bretzenheim would therefore simply mean “Bretzo’s home.”

History still accompanies the residents of Bretzenheim at every turn. The narrow streets of the town center, the old town hall with its prison tower, and the milk path once used by the Bretzenheim milkmaids on their way to Mainz give an impression of times long past. Today, Mainz-Bretzenheim is home to all those who love the village character of the place and at the same time appreciate its proximity to Mainz city center. Many residents of the district also benefit from its proximity to Johannes Gutenberg University.

The Catholic St. George's Church is something of a landmark. Thanks to its famous 18th-century paintings, it is well worth seeing, both from the outside and inside. In the immediate vicinity, contemporary sculptor Richard Hess has added modern accents that blend in harmoniously with his Marian fountain. Despite its historical roots, there is also a "modern" Bretzenheim with its residential areas, schools, and kindergartens. And with a facility that is known and loved far beyond Mainz-Bretzenheim: the Alte Ziegelei (old brickworks). Events are held here throughout the year – and, of course, the "Ziegeleifest" (brickworks festival) on the first Sunday in September.

Bretzenheim also celebrates during Carnival, at the Pretzel Festival, and at the Kerb. Then the narrow streets around the town hall square fill up and give a glimpse of the diversity of this tradition-conscious yet youthful district. Mainz-Bretzenheim has retained its historic character and partly village-like atmosphere over the centuries. As a result, the district has lost none of its appeal for many Mainz residents – on the contrary.