The History of the Danube River

Framed by some of the most picturesque and historical cities in the world, the Danube River

is both captivating and charming. Recognized as Europe‟s second-longest waterway, the

Danube River begins its journey from the springs in Germany‟s Black Forest and ends when

it reaches the Black Sea.1 During the height of the Roman Empire, the river acted as a

boundary that limited the movement of the Goths, Huns and Mongols into Roman territory.

The commercial importance of the river escalated during the Crusades and then again in the

19th

century. By the end of the Crimean War, the delta was cleared of obstructions and

declared an international trade route.4

The expansive Danube River is 1,788 miles in length and, before reaching the Black Sea,

forms the second largest and best preserved of Europe's deltas. With 2,200 square miles of

rivers, canals, and marshes, the delta is rich in fauna and flora.3 Fascinating landmarks and

sights line the banks of the river, attracting a variety of tourists from around the world. From

avid birdwatchers to those in search of historical stimulation, the Danube River has

something for everyone. The wide array of attractions has led to an increasingly popular

demand for stunning river cruises that lead the traveller on a voyage through time, from

ancient castles and fortresses to lush vineyards and bustling cities.

Take a river cruise with AmaWaterways and discover a fortune of art, history and cultural

treasures as you explore some of Europe‟s most renowned destinations. From Budapest to

Prague, you can explore four of the world‟s most beautiful cities.

Immersed in an exciting history, Budapest is home to the Danube embankments and the Buda

Castle District, two of the world‟s most famous UNESCO Heritage Sites. Described as one of

the most romantic cities, Hungary‟s capital city stands unparalleled in beauty. From the

Royal Palace to the historical old town district, visitors will travel back in time. Beautiful

Baroque homes, Trinity Square, and the 700-year old Mathias Church are just a few of the

wonderful sites that can be seen on an exciting river cruise.5

Set between the picturesque towns of Melk and Krems, the Wachau Valley is renowned for

its high-quality wines, Melk Abbey and the “Nibelungenlied”. Founded in 1089 AD, Melk

was built around the establishment of the Benedictine Abbey while the origin of Krems lies

in the 13th

century. The valley‟s wine production can be traced back to the Roman occupation

and has since grown into international acclaim. Set in a lush landscape and scattered with

castles, abbeys, and ruins, the Wachau Valley is a historical feast that compliments the

pleasure of any Danube River Cruise.

Beloved by poets and musicians alike, the dreamy city of Prague is a banquet of cultural

splendour. As one of the most popular river cruise destinations, the wealth of architecture,

monuments, and culture breathes life into any tour. Filled with romance, art, and music,

Prague is whimsical and fascinating. With 866 hectares of UNESCO World Cultural and

Natural Heritage sites, the city is teaming with things to do and places to see. The Prague

Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and Josefov are just a few of the wonderful sites that the

attractive city has to offer.6

Labelled as „Little Paris‟ in the 1900s, Bucharest is known for its tree-lined streets and Belle

Époque architecture. Known as the cultural, industrial, and financial hub, Bucharest is the

largest city in Romania. Originally paved with oak beams, the acclaimed Calea Victoriei is

Bucharest's oldest and most pleasant street, while the Royal Palace, erected between 1927

and 1937, is now the Romanian National Art Museum. With the city‟s own Arc de Triomphe,

Bucharest is bustling with history.3

Alive with history and culture, the Danube River is the ideal place from which to explore

these wonders. Explore some of the most scenic cities in the world from an enchanting river

cruise and indulge your curiosity!

About us Founded in 2002, AmaWaterways operates the finest fleet and provides all-inclusive river

cruise vacations on the great waterways of Europe, Russia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. With a

unique range of on and off-board activities, AmaWaterways offers a river cruise vacation

experience that will exceed all expectations.

Sources:

1. Before It‟s News, (2012-09-15), “Top 10 Interesting Facts about the Danube Delta”,

http://beforeitsnews.com 2. Farlouis, Shannon, (2011-08-06), “Interesting Facts about the River Danube”,

http://www.sciences360.com/ 3. Romania. Danube Delta – Highlights.

http://romaniatourism.com/delta.html 4. Info Please. Danube History.

http://www.infoplease.com/encyclopedia/world/danube-history.html 5. Budapest.Com. City Guide: Attractions

http://www.budapest.com/city_guide/attractions.en.html 6. Prague. Prague Welcome.

http://www.praguewelcome.cz/en/