Wilhelmskanal, Canal structure in Heilbronn, Germany.
Wilhelmskanal is a waterway in Heilbronn that links the Neckar River through artificial channels and guides boats over multiple locks. The system allows river traffic between different sections and shapes the city's landscape with its waterside structures.
The canal was built starting in 1819 using prison laborers and first enabled river shipping on the Neckar. It was part of a major infrastructure effort to make the river suitable for trade and transport.
The canal area incorporates art installations, including the 2019 Bundesgartenschau exhibition featuring sculptures that integrate with the surrounding landscape.
Paths along the canal are popular with cyclists and walkers for outings of varying lengths. The waterside area is easy to reach and offers quiet routes through the city.
The oldest lock on the canal still operates today and is manually controlled, making it one of the last hand-operated systems in the region. Visitors can watch how this traditional technique continues to move boats over the height differences.
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