Koblenz and The Rhine Gorge Day 10

Koblenz is famous for the Basilica of St Castor named after the missionary who served his community in the fourth century.  In the ninth century, St Castor extended the nave to include a monastery and quickly became a major player in the spiritual/political shaping of Germany and Eastern Europe.  Kings, emperors, and dignitaries came to rely on the basilica to settle disputes, negotiate treaties, and broker territorial limits.  Blueprints for the Treaty of Verdun were drawn up here.  And the mention of Kings calls to mind castles.  

Basilica of St. Castor

Sideview St Castor

Unique ceiling

As we headed down into the Rhine Gorge, we saw two things that define this area, castles and vineyards.  The castles, all 23 of them, were built for security and protection.  Living on the Rhine, a virtual thoroughfare through a large part of Europe, meant those with power could collect tolls in return for river passage.  Romans, monks, and Lords discovered the soil along the river was perfect for growing Riesling grapes. The landscape is now sculpted by vineyards and the remains of the castles that used to reign supreme. Today, wine is King!

Stolzenfels Castle

Katz Castle

Marksburg Castle

Liebenstein Castle

Maus Castle

View of Rhine from boat deck

Ehrenfels Castle

Vineyards along the Rhine

View of Rhine from room

Shannon trying some Weiner Schnitzel.  Loved it!!!