Maaraue and banks of the Main in Kostheim
Not only do two federal states – Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse – meet in Mainz, but two rivers also converge here – the Rhine and the Main. A long walk along the banks of the Rhine in Kastel eventually leads to the equally beautiful banks of the Main in Kostheim. At Kostheim harbor, it is worth climbing the approximately 15-meter-high observation tower (opens in a new tab). The panoramic view offers impressions of the Main shortly before it flows into the Rhine, the Kostheim lock, the bridge to Ginsheim-Gustavsburg, and Alt-Kostheim with its mix of commercial and residential areas. Mainz, Wiesbaden, and the Taunus mountains can be seen in the distance. The tower at Mainhafen is part of the Rhine-Main Regional Park (opens in a new tab). A walk or bike ride across the Maaraue is also highly recommended.
Gem in the Rhine
The Maaraue near Kostheim, opposite Mainz's old town, has seen better days: Emperor Frederick Barbarossa held a grand Pentecost celebration here in 1184 to mark the knighting of two of his sons. This celebration was described as one of the most magnificent events of the Middle Ages, attended by over 40,000 knights. Crowned heads from all over Europe gathered in Mainz.
Today, the Maaraue is the perfect place for anyone who wants to enjoy peace and relaxation surrounded by greenery, along with a magnificent panoramic view of Mainz. It is easily accessible from the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate by bike or on foot via the small bridge south of Mainz-Kastel train station.
The Maaraue is surrounded by the Main and Rhine rivers. At the southern tip of the floodplain, you can see the Mainspitze, where the Main flows into the Rhine. In summer, the Maaraue outdoor pool is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy that holiday feeling. The extensive meadows of the floodplain are ideal for local recreation. Culinary delights can be prepared at the barbecue area. There is also a campsite, an allotment garden colony, and three sports facilities on the Maaraue.