By Henri Bauholz
The Rhine River begins in the mountains of Germany and flows northward through western Germany and France toward the North Sea in the Netherlands. On its path to the sea, the river passes through the German cities of Koln (Cologne) and Dusseldorf. For many centuries, this waterway has been a major transportation center and cultural hub for those living near or next to the river.
Transportation
The Rhine has been an important travel route in both modern and ancient eras and at one time served as the northern border of the Roman Empire. Today, visitors will quickly notice that the large waterway is well-traveled with both commercial barges and passenger craft using the river for transportation.
Castles
In central Germany, the Rhine River is surrounded by high hills that rise nearly a thousand feet above the river. At the top of the bluffs is where one will find the famous Rhine castles, which are impressive fort-like structures that once guarded the river.
Agriculture
Through much of its German route, the hills that surround the river are covered with vineyards. Wine is the great agricultural project here, for Rhineland wine is popular far beyond the German borders.
Tourism
The small picturesque towns along this important watercourse are popular tourist destinations, especially in the summer. Visitors to the region can travel by train, car or bus along the riverside and stay at one of the many small villages that cater to tourists. The town of Bacharach, which is located near Frankfurt, is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Colorful History
The Rhine region of central Germany was once covered with a number of very small city-states that flourished along the banks of this river. These tiny states were each ruled by a baron or prince, who frequently went to war with another state.
About the Author:
Henri Bauholz is a professional writer covering a variety of topics, including hiking, camping, foreign travel and nature. He has written travel articles for several online publications and his travels have taken him all over the world, from Mexico to Latin America and across the Atlantic to Europe.
