A thousand years after Charlemagne (“Karl der Große”) envisioned Kelheim as a shipping hub, Bavarian King Ludwig I (1824-1848) brought this vision to life. In July 1846, the project was completed, establishing a 172.44 km long waterway with Floodgate No. 1 in Kelheim and Floodgate No. 100 in Bamberg. This waterway was the first ever to connect the Black Sea and North Sea, creating a vital trade route. Kelheim, where the canal begins, features a notable construction: the old canal harbor.
Today, the 600-meter-long structure, which includes the harbor basin, crane, warehouse, and lock house, is no longer in commercial use due to the size of modern ships. However, it remains an important historical landmark and tourist attraction, resembling a living museum where visitors can relax and enjoy this beautiful structure. The warehouse is still utilized by the Kelheim canoe club for storing members’ canoes, and the harbor can still be used for recreational sports.
What’s remarkable about this old structure is its enduring functionality. Despite its age, the entire harbor complex is fully operational and preserved as a monument of engineering art.
Furthermore the old canal harbor truly comes back to life during the annual fishers’ stinging (“Fischerstechen”) in August. This event features two teams in traditional Danube fishing boats (“Zillen”), that originate in Bavaria and Austria. Each boat, with three rowers, aims to approach the opponent closely, while one team member at the bow tries to knock the opposing team member out of the boat using a pole.
So all in all, the old canal harbor in Kelheim is a must-see for visitors, and is something you wouldn‘t want to miss on your visit to Kelheim.
