Kappeln

Kappeln is a small town in Schleswig-Flensburg in northern Germany that stretches along both sides of the Schlei river. The buildings range from the historic town center by the water to residential areas on the gentle hills around it.

Documents mention the settlement for the first time in 1357 as a community at the mouth of the Schlei. More than five centuries later the municipality received town rights in 1870 and developed into a regional trading center.

The name comes from the Low German word for chapel and recalls a small church by the water. Today locals walk along the riverfront promenade and gather in the old town cafés.

A walk along the waterfront promenade is especially worthwhile in summer with views of fishing boats and river traffic. The town center is easy to explore on foot and many paths lead from the center straight to the water.

An old drawbridge connects the two riverbanks and opens several times a day for sailboats and smaller ships. Visitors who arrive at the right time watch road traffic pause briefly and the bridge slowly lift.

Location: Schleswig-Flensburg

Elevation above the sea: 10 m

Shares border with: Rabel, Maasholm, Stoltebüll, Hasselberg, Rabenholz, Oersberg, Rabenkirchen-Faulück, Grödersby, Winnemark, Brodersby, Karby

Website: https://kappeln.de

GPS coordinates: 54.66139,9.93111

Latest update: December 17, 2025 07:32