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| Rhein-Hunsruck-Kreis, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany |
Sankt Goar, or St Goar, is a village of 4,000 residents which stands on the western banks of the River Rhine in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley within the Federal State of Rhineland-Palatinate. It is dominated by the awesome ruins of the 13th century Burg Rhinefels, the largest and most imposing castle on the Rhine. Located approximately 30 kilometres south of Koblenz, St. Goar is located within the Rhine Gorge, an area of outstanding natural beauty and significant cultural heritage, and has been recognised as such by being added to the U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage List. Due to its favorable location, St Goar is a popular tourist destination and wine making centre.
This historic village traces its history from the Roman period when a settlement was established to assist boats around the dangerous reefs of the Lorelei Rock. It is thought that St. Goar settled here around 520 A.D. and founded a hermitage, a Chapel and built a hospice for the poor and needy. The community gradually developed around this site with the Chapel today standing at the centre of the village. The chapel is considered to have been built by Charlemagne over the site of the hermitage and was dedicated to ‘Goar of Aquitane’. Here St. Goars’ grave later became a popular pilgrimage site. The earlier Chapel of St. Goar was re-built at the end of the 11th century, part of which has been amalgamated into the present building. The towers date from the 13th century, whilst the nave was built during the 15th century. This charming little church complete with its beautiful ceiling paintings is today the oldest Protestant Church of the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland, and with its tall black spire is the landmark of the village.
Standing directly opposite St. Goar on the eastern bank of the river stands the smaller village of St Goarshausen above which stands the Burg Katz. St Goarhausen is well known for being located very close to the famous Lorelei Rock, a 120 metre soaring rocky outcrop which marks the narrowest part of the river and is a dangerous part of the river due to jagged underwater rocks and strong currents. The Lorelei Rock has become a part of German Folklore through legendary tales and their associations with beautiful luring maidens!!
The two villages that stand either side of the Rhine take part in the annual ‘Rhine in Flames’ festival, a spectacular firework display which occurs in September.
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Best of Germany
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European Breakaway
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European Spotlight
11 days |  This tour appeals to the first-time visitors to Europe and gives a good introduction to Holland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and a little bit of France. There are two night stays in Amsterdam, Venice, Lucerne and Paris. Relax on a scenic cruise along the Rhine River, spend time in Heidelberg bef... |
European Breakaway Starting in Amsterdam
8 days | This tour is for those who want a quick insight into what Europe has to offer and have limited time. With two night stays in Amsterdam, Lucerne and Paris you will have time for some in-depth sightseeing in these cities. Enjoy a delightful cruise along the canals before dinner aboard a floating res... |
European Spotlight - Start Amsterdam
11 days | This tour appeals to the first-time visitors to Europe and gives a good introduction to Holland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and a little bit of France. There are two night stays in Amsterdam, Venice, Lucerne and Paris. Relax on a scenic cruise along the Rhine River, spend time in Heidelberg bef... |
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