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The Rhine River…Gateway To Germany’s Soul

© Sylvia Cochran

Originating in the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps (near Andermatt), the Rhine river is alternately a trickling brook, a raging stream, a breathtaking waterfall, and a last but not least a majestic river. It finally joins with the waters of the North Sea.

In 53 B.C. it refused to easily yield to Julius Cesar, who proceeded to build bridges to cross it. When the Roman Empire fell, it became the lifeblood of the Germanic Kingdom of the Franks. All throughout recorded history, the Rhine river was either at the center of, or the backdrop to power struggles as well as rises and falls of empires. All along the Rhine river the traveler will see the remains of castles and other architecture that attest to the power of this regal stream.

In addition to military conquest, the Rhine river, or Vater Rhein (father Rhine) as it is quite often referred to, is the cradle to many a beloved myth and legend, romantically perpetuated by many of Germany's finest poets and story tellers, such as Friedrich Hölderlin and Heinrich Heine. We hear of the Rhine Maidens, water fairies, who protect children, ripple the water, but also in a sinister twist lure would-be suicides to the murky depths of the stream. Quite possibly the most famous water maiden is the Lorelei; the German siren whose song condemned many a mythical sailor to death.

It is no surprise that this lifeblood of German history, poetry, and culture is a favorite of the tourism trade. Here are some of the most famous attractions:

• Annual Firework Display and Boat Round Cruise: Germany Rhine River Lights
• New Year's Eve Party on the Rhine, beginning in Düsseldorf: Silvesterparty bei Düsseldorf auf dem Rhein

Remembering the many nights of walking by the banks of this mighty river and watching the city's lights sparkle in the dark depths, it is not wonder that this river has inspired, strengthened, and perhaps even frightened many a visitor. Even at its most industrious, the river's majesty is still a vibrant feeling that cannot be ignored. Even at its worst, with dirty brown water lapping at a rocky shore, an otherworldly beauty born of ancient history and unmovable witness of ages past, lends a dignity to this stream. In closing, if you wish to partake of a stunning example of German scenery, history, culture, and myth, Germany's Vater Rhein is one sight you do not want to miss!