Niederwald Monument is a large and elaborate 19th-century structure at the top of a majestic outdoor staircase in a park. It commemorates the inauguration of the German Empire following the Franco-Prussian War. Inspect the many fine details sculpted into this masterpiece and consider its symbolism.
Capture photos from afar of this tall statue, which rises 125 feet (38 meters) in the air. Join the thousands of visitors and locals who come here to pay tribute to earlier heroes of the region and enjoy the splendid views of the countryside.
Gaze up at the female figure of Germania at the heart of this complex structure. She holds the sword of the empire in one hand and the recovered crown in the other. Inspect the winged figures and the line of soldiers in a central relief sculpture. Gather with friends on the circular base above the stairs and enjoy the vista over the Rhine and vineyards.
One of the highlights of a visit to this monument is the journey itself. Ride the cable car from a base station off the main street of Ruedesheim am Rhein. Admire the glorious views of the city’s Old Town and river, behind which lie dense mountainous forests. Spot green islets on the Rhine River and gaze down at vineyards beneath the lift.
Note that the structure, which was built in 1871, is often referred to as the Germania. Kaiser Wilhelm I laid the first stone, before sculptor Johannes Schilling completed the job designed by architect Karl Weisbach.
There is a fee for the cable car trip. Tickets are discounted for kids. Lower prices are offered for groups, round-trips and special deals including the chairlift to Assmannshausen.
The Niederwald Monument is 2 miles (3 kilometers) west of the central part of Ruedesheim am Rhein in the Niederwald Landscape Park in the region of Hessen. See nearby attractions, such as the Niederwald Temple and the Adlerwarte Niederwald forest, which protects eagles.
