top of page

Along the Danube

davidl5012

There is an especially stunning stretch of the Danube between Melk and Vienna. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to share some photos, which I wish could do its beauty justice.



So many beautiful churches and decorative buildings dot the landscape along the Danube.


On the right near the shoreline is a sculpture created by a local artist, with the intent of suggesting that a giant is buried beneath the ground, with only his nose sticking above the surface. Clearly, he has a sense of humor.




Dürnstein Castle is where Richard the Lionhearted was held prisoner for a few months. On his way from the Third Crusade, Richard’s ship wrecked, and he was forced to cross the land through Europe. Near Vienna, he was captured by Duke of Austria Leopold V, under the accusation of conspiring for the murder of his cousin Conrad of Montferrat. He was turned over to the emperor Henry VI, who held him for ransom. 150,000 marks (a very large amount) was raised by Richard’s mother, both indicating the wealth of England and their love of Richard.


Dürnstein Abbey is a Baroque jewel. The Abbey Church has been a parish church since 1745, and its striking blue tower, which dates to 1733, is the most elegant building in the entire complex.






While the buildings are always a highlight of the journey, sometimes the landscape itself is worthy of a photo.


What a beautiful way to make our last stretch into Vienna!

60 views1 comment

Recent Posts

See All

1 Comment


Patty Adkisson
Patty Adkisson
Jun 14, 2022

pictures are just beautiful. Love the landscapes of the river, mountains and the clouds. Hope you don't mind that I have saved some of the pictures. :)

Like
bottom of page