At the confluence of Mosel and Rhine, Deutsches Eck is a headland that has been an integral part of German history during war times. Characterized by an equestrian statue that soars over the city, it is a monument honoring the first German Emperor William I. The original statue was inaugurated in 1897 and a refurbished statue was installed in 1993. A tribute to German unity, the headland is a popular tourist attraction today. Boat rides through the inland waterway of Mosel and Rhine are an ideal way to view the Deutsches Eck.
Basilika St. Kastor is a quaint church that was built by the bishop of Trier. The church has a picturesque architecture and with intriguing interiors. The place is best known for being the site where the famed treaty was signed which divided the Carolingian Empire. Inside you can find old relics, epitaphs of bishops, inscriptions and so on.
The Ehrenbreitstein Fortress sits atop a mountain with the same name. The fortress was built on the mountain top between the years of 1817 and 1828 by Prussian forces, though another fortress had stood on this same spot until 1801 when it was destroyed by the French. Of course, early people had also seen the benefits of building on top of the impressive Ehrenbreitstein mountain; some archaeologists believe that structures may have been built on this same site as early as the 9th-Century BC. The fortress that visitors can see today was never attacked while the Prussian military owned it. It was, however, occupied by U.S. troops during the Occupation of the Rhineland. Having escaped destruction in World War II, the fortress served as a variety of establishments before being made into a museum in 1956. Visitors can take a cable car up to the fortress where they can wander around the grounds and explore the many rooms on docent-led tours.
Germany is a land known for its magnificent castles and almost every city has at least one of its own. Overlooking the river, Schloss Stolzenfels is situated on the outskirts of the ancient city of Koblenz. This medieval castle was built by Arnold von Isenburg, the Archbishop of Trier and used as a toll station. Later it was the office of the Electorate of Trier. During the Nine Years War, it was damaged by the French and was in ruin for 150 years. It was gifted to Frederick William IV of Prussia in 1815. He delegated Karl Friedrich Schinkel to rebuild the building. The neoclassic architect turned it into a beautiful neo-Gothic building. It was the Prussian King's favorite summertime residence. Take a stroll through the gardens, halls and royal rooms of this romantic castle to get a glimpse into the past.
This massive, medieval style church is the grandest attraction in the town of Boppard. Beneath the Severus church (12th century) one can visit the remains of a Roman baths. With tall, dark spices and ivory walls, the church inspires awe and wonder. Walk between the pews and attend the fascinating tour of this marvel.
Traced back to the medieval era, Burg Thurant is surrounded by vineyards and overlooks nearby towns. Archbishop battles, medieval torture devices and finally a peace treaty are some of its true stories that bring people to explore its once glorious past.
Located on the Rhine River, Koblenz is a beautiful and historic German town. Founded around 1000 B.C., the settlement has a fascinating history. Roman troops visited in 55 B.C. and later used the area as a military post. After the Romans, the city was reigned by various forces, and today it is known as one of Germany's most picturesque towns.
The JAM Club is a happening live event venue that stages the best performances by renowned and upcoming artists. Visitors can get grooving to the tunes of famous artists like Band Apart. Live music and a vibrant atmosphere is what aptly defines the scenario at JAM Club. All in all, enjoy a night filled with great performances and have a fun time out.
One of the city's most recognizable landmarks, the Christuskirche has a long and interesting history. Originally built between 1903-1904 to serve the expanded protestant community following the removal of city walls, the church has been an integral part of the life of its parishioners for over a century. An amalgamation of different architectural styles, the church was originally constructed with late-Gothic features. However, due to extensive damage during the World War II, the exteriors and interiors were remodeled extensively. Note the fascinating sculptural details of fauna, flora and mythical creatures that adorn the exteriors, the detailed stained-glass windows and the 1955 organ from Cologne.
Circus Maximus is restaurant, bar and music club, all rolled under one roof. Opened in 2009, their eatery serves delicious burgers where even vegetarians and vegans are catered to. Unwind at the cozy bar over some drinks or head downstairs where all the action is. The basement is the stage of live performances, poetry slams, readings and parties.
While in Koblenz, a visit to the magnificent Forum Confluentes should be a must in your itinerary. With its alluring silk-screened glass facade it will beckon you in to explore its six floors which includes the spectacular roof terrace as well. Hailed as an architectural wonder, it was designed by Dutch architects Mels Crouwel and Jan Benthem. This cultural hub is where art and culture meet to give an enthralling educative trip to visitors. It houses the Mittelrhein Museum (Middle Rhine Museum), Romanticum, StadtBibliothek (City Library) and the Tourist Information Center. Stop by Kulturecafe K3 for great coffee and gourmet chocolate delights on the ground level of Forum Confluentes. Check out the Central Square that links it to the Forum Mittelrhein and offers many seating areas and play zones. It is also used for open-air events and weekly markets.
Romanticum offers a unique and enthralling experience like no other in the city. Get aboard a virtual steamship and set sail through the Rhine Gorge to explore the river and learn about the folklore and mysteries associated with it. The interactive, multimedia displays will show the the valley's beautiful landscape and legends while also taking you through a culinary journey of the region. You also get to see Goethe and Queen Augusta among other personalities who form an integral part of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley's chronicle.