Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, Düsseldorf Kaiserswerth is a charming district that boasts a rich history and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern allure.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the captivating allure of Düsseldorf Kaiserswerth, uncovering its historical significance and contemporary delights, transportation methods from the city center and delightful food recommendations.
The History and Charm of Düsseldorf Kaiserswerth
Roman Origins and Development as a Suburb
Düsseldorf Kaiserswerth's Roman origin began as a humble monastery. The district soon grew in importance under the Holy Roman Empire, with Emperor Friederick I Barbarossa fortifying it into a castle.
Over time, this area evolved into a significant suburb of Düsseldorf due to its strategic location by the Rhine River.
Today, tourists flock to explore the ruins of Friederick I Barbarossa's castle and relish in the charm and historical significance rooted deep within this district's streets.
How to visit Kaiserswerth from Düsseldorf Centre
The train ride to Kaiserswerth from the Hauptbahnhof (central train station) takes about twenty-five minutes. Trains run every twenty to thirty minutes, making it easy to access this part of town. To maximize your sightseeing, plan your schedule in advance.
To get to Kaiserswerth, take the U79 train towards Duisburg Meiderich Bf, and get off at Kaiserswerth station (Kittelbachstraße).
From the station, it's a short ten-minute walk to the historic part of Kaiserswerth.
DüsseldorfCard gives free public transportation in Düsseldorf and offers discounts at major city attractions. Get your DüsseldorfCard here.
A taxi or car ride is another option, which can be quicker and more comfortable, especially if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. The travel time is approximately 15 minutes.
For those seeking an alternative mode of travel, hitting the river might be your best bet. You can board a boat ride from Düsseldorf and navigate through River Rhine right up to Kaiserswerth.
This route gives travellers an exclusive panorama of the beautiful German landscape available nowhere else.
Things to See and Do in Kaiserswerth
Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth
Perched on the outskirts of town, Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth reveals a fascinating glimpse into Düsseldorf's past. This ancient castle site embodies historical significance and cultural influence.
Visitors can wander through the ruins of what was once an important 12th-century building, absorbing its storied history. Overlooking the Rhine River, this "imperial palace" still exhibits signs of its former grandeur despite being in ruins.
It serves as a compelling testament to Kaiserswerth's rich heritage, particularly as it relates to nursing's origins and religious influences like the local basilica.
Strolling around these grounds offers unmissable opportunities for exploration and understanding this region's distinct character.
St. Suitbertus Basilica
Near the historic Kaiserpfalz in Düsseldorf, you'll find the St. Suitbertus church, a must-see church in this charming area.
This triple-naved Basilica, constructed between 1050 and 1237, houses a gold shrine containing the relics of Saint Suitbertus, an Anglo-Saxon missionary who established a monastery in Kaiserswerth in the 700s.
Situated on the serene Suitbertus-Stiftsplatz, the Basilica attracts both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy the church's choir, organ performances, and regular church services. The basilica is named in honor of Saint Suitbert, the founder of the area's first abbey.
Although parts of the current church date back to the 11th century, extensive renovations took place in the 18th century. Additionally, the remains of Saint Suitbert are interred here.
Museum Kaiserswerth
Museum Kaiserswerth is a modest museum situated within a primary school on Fliednerstrasse.
It offers a journey through history with its collection of maps, original documents, and town plans.
A notable feature of the exhibition is a city model measuring 12x18 square feet, meticulously crafted from ceramic by the accomplished Düsseldorf artist, sculptor, and ceramist Hannes Esser. [1]