Festung Ehrebreitstein (Ehrenbreitstein Fortress), one of Koblenz’s landmarks and second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, looks down on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers at Deutsches Eck (German Corner) and back on an eventful history.
More about Koblenz as a travel destination: Koblenz Sightseeing Highlights
“As early as five thousand years ago humans settled on the Ehrenbreitstein plateau” explains Romy Zahren of the Koblenz Tourism Board. Until the emergence of the Prussian bastion that can be seen today, different buildings were set on top of each other as explained by Zahren.
These layers can be discovered with the start of the BUGA in a very special way: “A glass elevator descends into the origins of the history of the fort”.
The interior of the fortress is equally fascinating as its impressive exterior: a look at the mighty walls captivates by its symbolism of past centers of power on the Rhine River.
Prior to the Prussians, the bishops and electors of Trier settled on the Ehrenbreitstein plateau for as long as 800 years. Particularly active was the noble family of Schönborn which provided many church dignitaries to the Holy Roman Empire.
The members of the noble family were closely linked to one another and spread over various principalities which made them have great influence on the emergence of further fortresses, such as in Mainz, Würzburg or Erfurt.
Each of the fortresses has a distinct charm and is well worth a visit.
