Margrave Charles III William decided that he needed more space which led to the foundation of Karlsruhe in 1715, which three years later became the new capital until the state was merged into the grand-duchy of Baden.

In 1938, Durlach was incorporated into Karlsruhe, which had was now bigger and connected by a canal and an avenue of poplars with it, on the left bank of the Pfinz, at the foot of the Turmberg.

[citation needed] Georg Friedrich von Reichenbach and Ernst Ludwig Posselt (1763–1804, historian) were natives of the town.

Important attractions are the Karlsburg Castle in the center, erected in 1565 and later used as barracks, now with some museums an ancient town hall, a church with an excellent organ, and in the market-place a statue of the margrave Charles II.

Durlach hosted several factories, producing sewing-machines (Pfaff), brushes, chemicals, tobacco, beer, vinegar, chicory and pipe organs.