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Deutsches Eck: Where Rivers Meet and History Resonates

Witness the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle at Deutsches Eck in Koblenz, a historic landmark crowned by the iconic Kaiser Wilhelm I monument, symbolizing German unity.

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The Deutsches Eck (German Corner) in Koblenz marks the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, offering a dramatic and historically significant landmark. Dominated by a monumental equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I, this promontory symbolizes German unity. Originally the site of a Teutonic Order settlement in the 13th century, the area transformed into a powerful national symbol in the late 19th century with the erection of the Kaiser Wilhelm monument. Destroyed in World War II and later rebuilt, the Deutsches Eck continues to draw millions of visitors annually, offering stunning views, historical insights, and a vibrant atmosphere with nearby cafes and attractions. A visit to Koblenz is incomplete without experiencing this iconic location.

A brief summary to Deutsches Eck

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Take a stroll along the Rhine and Moselle river promenades for scenic views and a relaxing experience.
  • Combine your visit with a ride on the Koblenz cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine Valley (round trip ticket: about €13.90).
  • Explore the nearby Old Town of Koblenz, including the Basilica of St. Castor and the Ludwig Museum, to delve deeper into the city's history and culture.
  • Check for local events and festivals happening at Deutsches Eck, especially during the summer months, to experience the area's vibrant atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Koblenz city center (e.g., Görresplatz), head west towards the Löhrstraße shopping street. Continue straight until you reach the Rhine riverfront. Turn left and walk along the Rhine Promenade (Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer) for about 15-20 minutes. Deutsches Eck will be on your right, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. This walk is approximately 1.6 km and takes about 20 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Koblenz Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus line 1 towards 'Koblenz Deutsches Eck/Seilbahn'. The bus departs from bay D and arrives directly at the Deutsches Eck/Seilbahn stop. The journey takes approximately 16 minutes. A single ticket costs around €3-4.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Koblenz Hauptbahnhof to Deutsches Eck takes approximately 5 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €9-€13.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking garages are available in Koblenz city center, including Am Görresplatz car park, Schloss car park, and the Schängel Center underground car park. Parking rates are approximately €1.50 per hour. Street parking is also available in the Altstadt (Old Town) and Mitte (city center) for €1.50 per hour, with a maximum parking time of 2 hours, except in Deutsches Eck where parking is limited to 12 hours.

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Discover more about Deutsches Eck

At the point where the Moselle River gracefully joins the mighty Rhine, lies the Deutsches Eck, or German Corner, in Koblenz, a site steeped in history and symbolic significance. This iconic promontory, dominated by the colossal equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I, stands as a testament to German unity and a powerful reminder of the nation's complex past. The name 'Deutsches Eck' originates from the settlement of the Teutonic Order, a medieval Catholic military order, at the confluence of the rivers in 1216. Archbishop Theoderich von Wied granted the order land near the St. Castor's Abbey, and the site became known as 'Deutscher Ordt,' later evolving into 'Deutsches Eck.' For centuries, the area served as a commandry for the Teutonic Knights, playing a role in the region's religious and political landscape. However, the Deutsches Eck as we know it today took shape in the late 19th century. Following the death of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the first German Emperor, in 1888, a movement arose to commemorate his role in unifying Germany after three wars. His grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm II, selected the Deutsches Eck as the ideal location for a grand monument. To create space for the memorial, a harbor at the mouth of the Moselle was filled in, thus creating the promontory. The monument, designed by Bruno Schmitz, was inaugurated on August 31, 1897. The copper equestrian statue of Wilhelm I, standing 14 meters tall, was a prominent feature of the 37-meter-high monument. An inscription quoting a verse by the Koblenz poet Max von Schenkendorf, 'Nimmer wird das Reich zerstöret, wenn ihr einig seid und treu' ('Never will the Empire be destroyed, so long as you are united and loyal'), reinforced the monument's message of national unity. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, the Deutsches Eck served as a powerful symbol of German national pride. It witnessed parades, rallies, and celebrations, becoming deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of the nation. However, the monument's fate took a dramatic turn during World War II. In March 1945, the statue was severely damaged by American artillery fire. Soon after, the French military government ordered its complete dismantling. In 1953, Theodor Heuss, the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany, rededicated the riderless pedestal as a memorial to German unity. Until 1993, a flagpole with the German federal flag stood on the site, representing the aspiration for a reunified Germany during the Cold War era. With German reunification in 1990, discussions arose regarding the monument's future. Some considered the reinstallation of the equestrian statue anachronistic, while others saw it as an opportunity to boost tourism. Ultimately, Werner Theisen, a former newspaper publisher from Koblenz, and his wife Anneliese, stepped forward to bear the costs of reconstructing the statue. The Düsseldorf sculptor Raymond Kittl was commissioned to create a replica of the original, using durable bronze cast instead of copper plates. In May 1992, the statue's components arrived in Koblenz, and in autumn 1993, the reconstructed monument was raised onto its plinth. Today, the Deutsches Eck stands as one of Koblenz's most popular tourist attractions, drawing over 2 million visitors annually. It has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the 'Upper Middle Rhine Valley' since 2002. Visitors can climb the monument for panoramic views of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, the city of Koblenz, and the imposing Ehrenbreitstein Fortress across the Rhine. The Deutsches Eck offers more than just stunning views. The area surrounding the monument is beautifully landscaped, providing a pleasant space for leisurely walks along the riverbanks. Numerous cafes and restaurants line the promenade, offering visitors a chance to relax and savor local delicacies while enjoying the scenery. The Deutsches Eck also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. Beyond the monument itself, the Deutsches Eck provides access to other notable Koblenz attractions. The Basilica of St. Castor, one of the city's oldest churches, is located nearby. The Ludwig Museum, housed in the Deutschherrenhaus, showcases contemporary art, particularly French art after 1945. A short walk along the Rhine Promenade leads to the Koblenz cable car, which offers a scenic ride across the river to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. A visit to the Deutsches Eck is a journey through German history, a celebration of national unity, and an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Rhine and Moselle valleys. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable travel experience, the Deutsches Eck promises an unforgettable encounter.

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