The Fortress of Ehrenbreitstein impressively dominates the cityscape of Koblenz in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Located on the steep rock of Ehrenbreitstein, it offers an impressive view over the Rhine Valley. Contrary to popular belief, the current complex does not date back to the year 1000, but its origins can be traced back to an older fortification. However, the present-day fortress was built in the Baroque period, particularly in the 18th century, and is one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
The architecture of the fortress, impressive in its massiveness, reflects the engineering and strategic planning of its time. While Johann Georg Judas and Otto von Schwob played important roles in the design and construction execution, it should be noted that the mention of Johann Wolfgang von Grünspecht as the park designer is not historically documented.
Throughout the centuries, the fortress Ehrenbreitstein has been the scene of significant historical events. It withstood numerous sieges and was heavily damaged during the Thirty Years’ War and the War of the Palatine Succession. After a brief French occupation at the beginning of the 19th century, it came under the Kingdom of Prussia in 1815 after the Congress of Vienna. Despite the damage suffered during World War II, it was lovingly restored and now stands as a witness to history.
Originally built as a military fortress, it also served as a prison, although the claim that Friedrich Schiller was imprisoned there is historically incorrect. Today, it amazes as a cultural venue and houses both the Mittelrhein Museum and the State Museum of Koblenz.
One outstanding feature is its indirect affiliation with the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Upper Middle Rhine Valley,” which emphasizes its significant role in history and culture. Visitors can convince themselves of the grandeur of the fortress on a guided tour and admire the Rhine Valley and Koblenz from its viewpoints in all their splendor.
The exact address is:
Festung Ehrenbreitstein
Felsenweg
56077 Koblenz
Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
The GPS coordinates are:
Latitude: 50.3634375
Longitude: 7.6106596
You can find more information on the website:
https://tor-zum-welterbe.de/de/kulturzentrum-festung-ehrenbreitstein/
Photo: Fritz Geller-Grimm
License: CC BY-SA 3.0
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