Experience the grandeur of Koblenz’s Kurfürstliches Schloss, the Electoral Palace. Built in the late 18th century as a residence for the last archbishop and elector of Trier, the building was one of the final palaces to be built before the French Revolution. Admire this remarkable example of early French neoclassical architecture, which is recognized as part of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected by the Hague Convention.
Explore the Schlossvorplatz (Palace Front Square) and appreciate the building’s architecture from different angles. Extending north and south, facing the Rhine River, the palace is comprised of an immense rectangular main building and two semi-circular wings. Face the building’s main façade on the western side to see its monumental portico, which has eight columns rising to the roof. Spot the relief sculptures that depict the allegory of the Rhine and the Moselle, as well as the electoral coat of arms, lions and ecclesiastical symbols related to the archbishop electors of Trier.
Commissioned in the 1770s by Clemens Wenceslaus of Saxony, the last archbishop elector of Trier, the palace’s design broke with tradition and gained acclaim for its impressive architecture. Notice that each room was designed with a focus on the Rhine, either drawing attention to the river views or referring to the landscape. The rooms on the south and east of the palace command beautiful views of the Middle Rhine Valley. In the 19th century, the palace was home to Wilhelm I, the Prussian crown prince, emperor and military governor.
Explore the riverfront Schlossgarten (terrace garden) to find a mirror-like pool and the Görres Monument along the Rhine Promenade. The interior of the castle is only accessible to the public via the Grand Café, which serves drinks and light meals throughout the day. Your visit might coincide with a festive banquet, conference or celebration held within the palace rooms.
Kurfürstliches Schloss is located between Koblenz’s Altstadt (Old Town) and the Rhine riverbank. Park at one of the adjoining garages or walk 15 minutes from the Koblenz City Center railway station. The palace gardens and café are free to visit.
