
Electoral Palace, Koblenz
The Electoral Palace (Kurfürstliches Schloss) is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks, a neoclassical masterpiece that stands proudly along the banks of the Rhine. Completed in 1786, it was commissioned by Elector Clemens Wenzeslaus of Saxony as a lavish residence befitting his status as Archbishop-Elector of Trier. Its elegant symmetry, columned portico, and riverside gardens embody the refined taste of the late 18th century, when Koblenz was a hub of political and cultural life in the Rhineland. Although war and time have left their marks, the palace has been carefully restored, allowing visitors to appreciate its grandeur much as it was originally conceived.
History resonates through every corridor of the palace. After the fall of the Electorate of Trier, the building was used by Prussian royalty and later by occupying forces during the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars. In the aftermath of World War II, it served as the headquarters of French military authorities. Each chapter of its past is visible in the subtle changes of architecture and design, making it not only a showcase of neoclassical aesthetics but also a mirror of European history.
Visitors today can explore the palace’s stately halls and enjoy its picturesque riverside setting, framed by manicured gardens that invite leisurely walks. The terrace, which opens onto the Rhine, is a favorite vantage point for taking in the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the famous Deutsches Eck, just a short stroll away. Inside, exhibitions and events highlight the cultural life of Koblenz and the historical significance of the residence.
For those discovering the city, the Electoral Palace stands as both an architectural gem and a reminder of Koblenz’s layered history. From strolling through its leafy gardens and admiring the calm symmetry of its classical façade to joining one of its cultural events, the palace offers a graceful contrast to the medieval fortresses and bustling squares nearby.
History resonates through every corridor of the palace. After the fall of the Electorate of Trier, the building was used by Prussian royalty and later by occupying forces during the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars. In the aftermath of World War II, it served as the headquarters of French military authorities. Each chapter of its past is visible in the subtle changes of architecture and design, making it not only a showcase of neoclassical aesthetics but also a mirror of European history.
Visitors today can explore the palace’s stately halls and enjoy its picturesque riverside setting, framed by manicured gardens that invite leisurely walks. The terrace, which opens onto the Rhine, is a favorite vantage point for taking in the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the famous Deutsches Eck, just a short stroll away. Inside, exhibitions and events highlight the cultural life of Koblenz and the historical significance of the residence.
For those discovering the city, the Electoral Palace stands as both an architectural gem and a reminder of Koblenz’s layered history. From strolling through its leafy gardens and admiring the calm symmetry of its classical façade to joining one of its cultural events, the palace offers a graceful contrast to the medieval fortresses and bustling squares nearby.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Koblenz. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Electoral Palace on Map
Sight Name: Electoral Palace
Sight Location: Koblenz, Germany (See walking tours in Koblenz)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Koblenz, Germany (See walking tours in Koblenz)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Koblenz, Germany
Create Your Own Walk in Koblenz
Creating your own self-guided walk in Koblenz is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Koblenz Introduction Walking Tour
Local legends say that one 16th century robber stuck out his tongue before being executed. Instead of finding this event grim, Koblenz residents made the cheeky robber a symbol, nowadays immortalized in the shape of a little boy's statue.
The city's name comes from the Latin ad confluentes, meaning “at the confluence”, referring to the meeting point of the great rivers Moselle... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.2 Km or 2.6 Miles
The city's name comes from the Latin ad confluentes, meaning “at the confluence”, referring to the meeting point of the great rivers Moselle... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.2 Km or 2.6 Miles