Rhens on the Rhine

In addition to its city hall with parts dating from the 16th century, and the picturesque half-timbered buildings, Rhens has a rather unusual historical monument. It is the six meters high stone "King's Throne" or "Koenigsstuhl" located upon a small hill on the Rhine. It has an important place in the history of this small town. It is here that the seven electors (princes) prepared for the election of the Emperor. The "Electoral College at Rhens" (Kurverein zu Rhense) resolved in 1338 that the Emperor chosen by them would be the legitimate ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, independent of Papal agreement. The massive monument was later destroyed under the French regime, but rebuilt in the Romantic era. Since then, the site of the "King's Throne" has changed many times because it was somehow always in the way.

On the other side of the Rhine lies Marksburg (the name is derived from St. Mark). It is difficult to reach upon a high cliff above Braubach. It is the only castle in the middle Rhine area that has survived the many wars undamaged. These began with the Thirty Years War and lasted up to and including the wars in the age of French revolution. The Knight's hall with it's polished and shiny armor and weapons are worth a visit.

Photo: Half-timbered houses in the old town of Rhens (Hochstraße am Viehtor).