In the codex of Loch Monastery it is mentioned as "Cnutlinga" in 786. Various grave finds point to a settlement in the Bronze Age. Like Daxlanden, the fortunes of Knielingen were strongly influenced by the Rhine. Tulla's correction of the Rhine from 1817 onwards resulted in the loss of areas on the left bank of the Rhine. The Maxau port, built in 1835, was closed in 1902 in favor of the new urban port. The Karlsruhe Rhine ports are among the most important inland ports in Europe with a total throughput of 6.3 million tons per year. Knielingen has the second largest district of all districts in Karlsruhe. The district was spared from destruction during the war and became an important industrial location, including Siemens and the refinery. Since the Rhine bridge is considered a direct regional connection to the Palatinate on the left bank of the Rhine and the French Alsace, but is heavily trafficked, the construction of a second Rhine bridge, possibly in the Knielinger district, is becoming increasingly likely. Odor nuisances from the sewage treatment plant and the refinery are perceived as annoying. Citizens' plus points are a quiet environment and a high level of social integration.

A modern local supply center and living space for 2,000 residents were built on the former barracks site after the withdrawal of the American armed forces. Community facilities and commercial areas should follow.