Meriankanzel, Sandstone observation deck in Heidelberg, Germany

The Meriankanzel is a sandstone observation platform situated on the Michelsberg slope at approximately 279 meters above sea level. From this vantage point, visitors can see across the city, the Neckar River, and the surrounding landscape.

Matthäus Merian produced his copper engraving of Heidelberg in 1619/1620, intending it to persuade influential residents to support his settling in the city. The view shows Heidelberg before the Thirty Years' War and before the French destruction in the Palatine War of Succession. Surveyor Georg Kettenmann showed in 1967 that the perspective points to this elevated spot rather than the Philosophenweg.

The platform displays information panels featuring Merian's copper engraving, allowing visitors to compare the historical city view with today's landscape. This comparison helps people understand how the city has changed over time.

The platform is accessible via several hiking trails, including the Philosophenweg and Blick zum Schloss paths, all clearly marked with signage. Comfortable hiking shoes and some time are needed for the walk up, but the climb is manageable for most visitors.

Surveyor Georg Kettenmann showed in 1967 that the perspective of Merian's engraving points to a higher spot than the Philosophenweg, and he found several stone platforms there. These were restored in 1988/1989 and given two information panels, renovated again in 2009. Even from the platform the view does not match the engraving exactly: Merian lowered most roofs and widened the streets to show the facades of his potential patrons.