Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz)
The state of Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz) lies in the south-western part of Germany. The state is bordered by the German states of Hessen, Saarland, Baden-Württemberg, and North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen), as well as the countries of Belgium, Luxemburg, and France.
The history of Rhineland-Palatinate dates back over 2,000 years, with many of its cities displaying their Roman origins through historical buildings, churches, castles, and fortresses.
The Rheingau region, Germany's Rhine Wine region, is found partially in the state of Hessen and partially in Rhineland-Palatinate. This region is characterized by vineyards, picturesque towns, castles, and well-known wineries.
Culinary Specialties of Rhineland Palatinate
Cooking in Rhineland Palatinate is very hearty. It is made up of the regional cooking styles of Palatinate, Rhineland, and Hessen.
A list of popular foods and dishes in Rhineland Palatinate are listed below.
Photo: © ExQuisine - Fotolia.com |
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Largest Cities
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The five largest cities (in terms of population) of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz) are listed below.
Mainz
Mainz is the capital city of Rhineland-Palatinate. Its population (as of September 2006) is 194,000, making it the largest city in the state. Mainz is situated on the Rhine River.
Ludwigshafen am Rhein
Ludwigshafen am Rhein ("Ludwigshafen on the Rhine River") is the second largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate, with a population of 163,000 (as of October 2005). It is well-known as the city in which the company BASF is headquartered.
Koblenz
Koblenz is the third largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate, with a population of 106,000 (as of June 2006). It is one of the oldest cities in Germany.
The name of the city stems from the latin word Confluentes, meaning "flowing together." This refers to the city's location being at the point where the Mosel River meets the Rhine River. This intersection is known as the German Corner (Das Deutsche Eck).
Trier
Trier is the oldest city in Germany and the fourth largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate. Its population is 101,000 (as of December 2006). Trier is located just 83 miles (50 km) from Luxemburg (the capital city of the country Luxemburg).
Trier is an academic city, with a university and several trade schools.
Kaiserslautern
Kaiserslautern is the fifth largest city in Rhineland-Palatinate, with a population of 98,000 (as of June 2006). It is a university and industrial city. It is also known for its soccer clubs and its significant role in the Soccer World Championship games in 2006.
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