Königstuhl

Königstuhl is a mountain summit near Heidelberg standing at approximately 570 meters above sea level. On clear days, views from the top extend across forests and rolling hills toward the distant Palatinate region.

An astronomical observatory was founded at this location in the late 1800s and became a center for celestial research. The site gained renown when researchers discovered numerous celestial bodies from here over the following decades.

The mountain has long served as a place of learning and scientific inquiry for the surrounding region. Today visitors sense the presence of research institutions that continue to study the cosmos from this elevated location.

A cable railway carries visitors up from the Old Town with a stop at the castle along the way. Once at the top, there are walking paths and several spots to rest and take in the views.

The summit hosts several radio and television transmission towers that shape the hilltop landscape. These technical installations remain visible across the entire region and form part of the everyday character of the mountain.

Location: Heidelberger Altstadt

Elevation above the sea: 570.3 m

Part of: Kleiner Odenwald

GPS coordinates: 49.40266,8.72979

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:23