The Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth is a set of ruins on the bank of the Rhine River. It is the most iconic highlight in the Kaiserswerth district. The structures date back 1,000 years to the time of Emperor Heinrich III and Emperor Friedrich I Barbarossa. Tour the site to learn the intriguing history of these buildings and their place in medieval German society.
Admire the remnants of the large remaining walls, which are 15 feet (4.5 meters) thick. The earliest parts of the ruins date back to the 8th century. Capture photos of the various segments of this castle as you walk around and imagine what each part was used for.
Take a guided tour for a fuller understanding of the rich history entwined with this fascinating complex. It has an ideal strategic location by the river and at the confluence of former trade routes. Note that from the 1700s it served as a quarry, until archeological excavations were made in the 20th century.
Today, it holds various open-air art exhibitions, with modern sculptures that complement the vestiges. See the Sidu bronze statue from 1979 overlooking the river. Stroll through the site and notice the great range of native plants that decorate the ruins, making them come alive. Inspect round-leaved bell-flowers, wall-glass, wallrails and other vegetation.
Wander through the charming streets surrounding the ruins. Relax at a quaint café and have a few drinks in a beer garden. Embark on an enchanting boat tour of the Rhine River.
Visit the complex in summer on any day from morning until early evening. Admission to the complex is free. Arrange a guided tour in advance by contacting the complex through its official website.
The Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth is in the Kaiserswerth neighborhood in the northern outskirts of Duesseldorf. Take the U-Bahn public transportation system to Kittelbachstraße and walk northwest to get here in about 30 minutes. See nearby landmarks, such as the Schloßpark Kalkum, the Rhine River and the Kleingartenverein Weißdorn.
