The Terraced Mosel

Along the lower reaches of the Mosel lies a unique landscape shaped by human hands.

The vineyard terraces around Winningen are the most extensive in the entire Mosel region. Up to 29 terraces rise above one another, while many kilometres of dry-stone walls run through the Uhlen, Hamm, Röttgen and Brückstück vineyards. The supporting arches and intersecting stairways built into the walls are particularly impressive.

This landscape of stone walls has its origins in the Middle Ages. The oldest sections probably date from the 13th to 15th centuries. The vineyards were certainly cultivated intensively in the 18th century, when growing long-distance trade and the nearby royal residence of Koblenz created strong demand for wine.

As well as their cultural and historical importance, the terraced vineyards provide a valuable habitat for rare wildlife, including the Apollo butterfly and the Eurasian eagle-owl.