The Rhine's Influence on Europe Throughout History

The legendary Rhine River is one of the most famous waterways in Europe. Stretching from The

Netherland's shores all the way down to the southern heart of Switzerland over 800 miles away,

taking a river cruise down The Rhine is a journey through a key part of Europe's history and

geography.

The Rhine was an important place during many periods of European history, and was central to

many of its historical kingdoms and cultures. Over the years, it has served many cultural and

historical roles, most of which we’ve listed below.

● It separated the Roman Empire from its Germanic enemies – The Rhine was one of

ancient Rome's most important borders. The river separated the Empire's territory from

Germania and the Celtic lands, and was involved in many of Rome's most important

military moments. Julius Caesar crossed The Rhine to launch his famous conquest of the

Celts, and when the Western Empire collapsed around 400 AD, the "barbarians" that took

many of its territories came from across the river into their new lands. ● It is home to many ancient castles – Because of its strategic location and importance as

a trade route to the Romans, the Carolingians, the Franks, and other ancient nations, The

Rhine is home to many ancient castles. The river's shore is heavily dotted with these now

abandoned fortresses that travellers from across the world come to see and explore. ● It was the heart of the Holy Roman Empire – The Holy Roman Empire was one of the

most important European kingdoms during the Dark Ages. After the Carolingian king

Charlemagne united Germany, Burgundy, Bohemia, parts of Italy, and other territories

under his rule, Pope Leo III revived the title of the Roman Empire, and crowned

Charlemagne its emperor. The Rhine was the heart of this new kingdom, and it would be

the Empire's main route for trading and moving its armies for its entire lifespan. ● It is responsible for Germany's vineyards – While its wines are not as internationally

known as the French's, Germany is home to many world-class vineyards that produce

some of the best wine in the world. Most of these vineyards would not exist without The

Rhine, which keeps the land of its river valley hydrated and full of the nutrients that the

vineyards need to survive. ● It was at the heart of many European wars – Many of the wars that fill Europe's

history from the 1600s all the way to World War II revolved at least in part around The

Rhine. Holland, France, Germany, and the Austro Hungary empire all sought control of

key parts of the river, and it traded hands multiple times during conflicts such as the

Franco-Prussian War. After the Treaty of Versailles ended World War I, France built its

famous Maginot Line of defenses along The Rhine's banks. ● It is the basis of some of Germany's most famous folk tales – The Rhine features in

two of the ancient German people's most famous myths. The first is that of Lorelei, the

nymph who lived on the rocks high above the river and lured sailors to their deaths. The

second tale says that Siegfried, Germany's most famous ancient hero, slew a dragon at a

castle on the river's banks.

Few rivers travel through as many countries and play as important a role in the development of

those nations. Travelers looking for a European river cruise that will take them on a journey

through the history and culture of Western Europe will greatly enjoy a boat tour of The Rhine.

Company Bio

AmaWaterways is a luxury cruise company that offers boat trips to a bevy of incredible

destinations including Europe, Africa, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Travel options range from low

key river cruises to wine tours and theme cruises, all on AmaWaterways’ fleet of stylish, custom-

designed vessels.