Deutsches Eck (German Corner)

The basics

A man-made promontory located where two of Germany’s great rivers meet, the Deutsches Eck is one of Koblenz’s enduring sights. In 1897, the bombastic statue of Wilhelm I, the unifier of Germany, was erected on a large plinth here; after being destroyed by bombing during World War II, the plinth stood unoccupied until a replica was installed in 1993 after Germany was once again unified. It is now part of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, Deutsches Eck is both a potent national symbol—flanked as it is by the flags of each German state—and one of Koblenz’s must-do attractions. It can be explored independently, but you can also visit it on numerous Koblenz sightseeing itineraries, including walking tours of the Old Town (Altstadt).

Things to know before you go

• Look towards the water: One of the landmark’s most striking features is where the two-toned waters of the Moselle and Rhine Rivers run parallel.

• If you wish to linger, several cafés with outdoor seating are located moments from the Deutsches Eck promontory.

• The Deutsches Eck is free to visit.

• Walking trails lining the promenade provide the perfect opportunity for soaking up the scenery.

How to get there

The Deutsches Eck is located in the heart of Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, and is close to the city’s Old Town. A cable car links Deutsches Eck to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, located on the other bank of the Rhine. The site is best explored on foot, while cars and taxis can drop off passengers just a short distance away.

When to get there

There’s no bad time to visit the Deutsches Eck. By day, it offers an excellent perspective on the meeting of two rivers, while at sunset and in the evening, it is a romantic place to admire the views. Because the site is entirely outdoors, however, aim to visit when the weather is good. It will also be most crowded during the summer and public holidays.

Koblenz’s top sights

Though the Deutsches Eck is one of Koblenz’s best-known landmarks, it’s worth extending your explorations to the rest of the city. Other popular highlights in the city include the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, Stolzenfels Castle, the Museum Ludwig, and the Basilica of St. Castor.