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Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe

Kassel, Germany
23.06.2018

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is a stunning natural landmark located in the city of Kassel in Germany. Covering an area of 2.4 square kilometers, it is one of the largest hillside parks in Europe and is known for its breathtaking landscape and impressive Baroque-style architecture.

The park is situated on the slope of the Habichtswald mountain range and is divided into three distinct sections - the Upper Park, the Middle Park, and the Lower Park. The Upper Park, also known as the Schlosspark, is home to the magnificent Wilhelmshöhe Palace which was built in the 18th century for the Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel. Visitors can explore the palace and its lavish interiors, as well as stroll through the well-manicured gardens surrounding it.

The Middle Park is a vast expanse of greenery, with numerous walking paths and scenic viewpoints. It is also home to the famous Hercules monument, a towering structure that stands at 70 meters tall and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Lower Park, also known as the Karlsaue Park, is a more natural and wild part of the Bergpark, with sprawling meadows, dense forests, and a serene lake.

One of the most unique features of Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is its water features. The park boasts an impressive system of cascading waterfalls, fountains, and man-made lakes, all connected by a network of canals. This engineering marvel was designed in the 18th century and is still in operation today, making it a must-see for visitors.

Aside from its natural beauty, Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe also offers a rich cultural experience. The park is home to the Museum of Astronomy and Technology, which showcases historical astronomical instruments and offers a glimpse into the evolution of science and technology. There is also the Ballhaus, a historic building that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is not only a popular tourist destination but also a beloved local spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and biking. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and diverse attractions, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Kassel in Germany. So, come and explore the beauty and charm of Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe and experience the best of nature, culture, and architecture in one place.


Descending a long hill dominated by a giant statue of Hercules, the monumental water displays of Wilhelmshöhe were begun by Landgrave Carl of Hesse-Kassel in 1689 around an east-west axis and were developed further into the 19th century. Reservoirs and channels behind the Hercules Monument supply water to a complex system of hydro-pneumatic devices that supply the site’s large Baroque water theatre, grotto, fountains and 350-metre long Grand Cascade. Beyond this, channels and waterways wind across the axis, feeding a series of dramatic waterfalls and wild rapids, the geyser-like Grand Fountain which leaps 50m high, the lake and secluded ponds that enliven the Romantic garden created in the 18th century by Carl’s great-grandson, Elector Wilhelm I. The great size of the park and its waterworks along with the towering Hercules statue constitute an expression of the ideals of absolutist Monarchy while the ensemble is a remarkable testimony to the aesthetics of the Baroque and Romantic periods.

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is a landscape park in Kassel, Germany. The area of the park is 2.4 square kilometres (590 acres), making it the largest European hillside park, and second largest park on a hill slope in the world. Construction of the Bergpark, or "mountain park", began in 1689 at the behest of the Landgraves of Hesse-Kassel and took about 150 years. The park is open to the public today. Since 2013, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its monumental Baroque architecture and its unique fountains and water features.

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