A German city councillor, Julien Ferrat, has caused a national stir after proposing that Mannheim embrace nudism and adult lifestyle tourism, with plans for a controversial private party inside the city’s town hall.
Ferrat, 35, who is the councillor representing the local political group Die Mannheimer, argued that Mannheim could benefit financially by developing a destination inspired by Cap d’Agde, the famous naturist resort on France’s Mediterranean coast. Ferrat has also suggested holding a private adults-only event at the city hall as part of his campaign.
The unusual proposal has attracted interest from about 50 people, according to Ferrat, although he admits the idea faces significant obstacles. He says he is now trying to establish how many people are genuinely interested and plans to meet some of those who contacted him but are not personally known to him.
Ferrat argues that the proposal is intended to challenge social attitudes and promote his wider vision for Mannheim. He also believes that attracting visitors interested in naturism could generate substantial income for the city through tourism, accommodation, businesses and other local spending.
His plans, however, have not impressed Mannheim’s administration. City officials say there is currently insufficient information to assess the proposal and have pointed out that Ferrat has not submitted the formal application required for an event at the town hall. Officials have also questioned how such an event would relate to his responsibilities as an elected councillor.
The city has previously rejected another proposal from Ferrat seeking funding for a feasibility study into establishing a permanent naturist and adult lifestyle destination in Mannheim.
According to German broadcaster SWR, Ferrat’s wider concept envisages a purpose-built development capable of accommodating between 1,000 and 2,000 visitors, with hotels, clubs and shops. He has claimed the project could potentially generate millions of euros for the city’s finances.
Ferrat’s interest in Cap d’Agde is not new. In 2025, he promoted what he described as a political educational trip to the French resort, travelling there with a group of almost 30 participants. The trip attracted attention after it was advertised through Mannheim’s official gazette.
The latest proposal has again placed Ferrat at the centre of controversy, with officials stressing that no approval has been granted.
Ferrat, meanwhile, has indicated that he is prepared to challenge any rejection through the courts. If the event cannot take place at the town hall, he says he will consider organising it at a private venue instead.
