After our river cruise and castle visit, we were free to do whatever we wanted for the rest of the day. Several smaller groups emerged and we spent the next few hours exploring in Koblenz.
The promenade along the river was filled with food trucks and eating places for holiday visitors. We joined the crowds as we walked towards the promontory point where the Rhine and the Mosel Rivers converge.
Now that the spring weather is turning warmer, people and families are out and about. It’s fun to join them.
The promenade led to the HUGE monument to the first German Emperor, Wilhelm I . The monument is 44 meters high (14 meters for the horse and Wilhelm). The equestrian statue ( hammered copper plates over an iron framework) weighs 63.5 tons.
A few weeks after the death of Kaiser Wilhelm I in 1888, the idea arose in both state and private circles to erect a monument to the immortalized prince as a thank you for the unification of Germany achieved in three wars (1864, 1866, 1871). Koblenz was among the numerous applicants for the site. The decision as to the location was left to the young Kaiser Wilhelm II , who in 1891 chose Koblenz and the spot at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine.
This monument felt a bit like something out of South America, or something from the Inca culture.
During the time we were up on top under the monument, the heavens opened and we had a downpour. Everyone scurried for cover. After about 10 minutes, the skies cleared again and everyone went back to their business.
Our 29 Euro ticket for the boat cruise to the castle included a ticket for the tram across the river to the fortifications on the other side, which was as fun as a Disneyland ride!
For the rest of the afternoon we wandered around the grounds and the fortifications on the other side of the river.
There were some museums to walk through.
Interesting stonework everywhere.
The fortification included some prison rooms.
A beautiful view of Koblenz:
There are some beautiful churches in Koblenz. This is the Basilica St. Kastor. It wasn’t open today.
What an interesting and full day. Enjoyed every minute!
Our Frankfurt Germany Mission 