Erpeler Ley, Basalt rock formation near Rhine River, Germany
Erpeler Ley is a basalt rock formation that rises steeply above the Rhine River near Kasbach-Ohlenberg, reaching a height of about 191 meters. The cliff face displays characteristic columnar structures formed by the cooling of ancient lava flows.
The formation originated about 25 million years ago through volcanic activity and was later quarried until the late 19th century. The site received protected status in 1941 as a natural monument.
A wooden cross at the summit stands as a memorial to those who died in World War II, particularly during the fighting around the Ludendorff Bridge between Erpel and Remagen. The site has become a place of remembrance for visitors from the region.
You can reach the summit by a short walking path or drive directly to the plateau, where parking and a restaurant are available. The location is easily accessible and offers views over the Rhine valley.
The basalt columns display a striking fan-shaped arrangement resulting from the different cooling rates of the lava flows. This geometric pattern is visible to visitors and gives the site a distinctive geological character.
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