Kaiser-Wilhelm-Denkmal

The Kaiser-Wilhelm monument is a bronze statue of a mounted figure on a red granite base in central Karlsruhe. The base measures approximately 5.70 meters (18.7 ft) in height while the bronze figure itself reaches approximately 5.20 meters (17.1 ft), creating an imposing ensemble together.

The monument was completed in 1897 following a design competition held in the city, roughly 26 years after the war between German and French forces. It was created to commemorate key events from that period.

The monument depicts Kaiser Wilhelm I mounted on horseback in a central location where visitors and locals encounter it regularly. The bronze reliefs on its sides tell stories from important moments in the empire's past.

The monument stands on Kaiserplatz in the city center and is easily reached by public transport. Visitors can view the statue from all sides since it sits on an open plaza.

The original monument included four allegorical figures that were melted down in 1943 during World War II. These bronze sculptures were lost and only the mounted rider and base remain today.

Location: Karlsruhe

Architects: Adolf Heer

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

GPS coordinates: 49.01029,8.38894

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:44