Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, Bad Wilhelmshöhe, Germany

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is a unique landscape park in Kassel. The area of the park is 2.4 square kilometres, making it the largest European hillside park, and second largest park on a mountain slope in the world. Descending a long hill dominated by a giant statue of Hercules, the monumental water displays of Wilhelmshöhe were begun by Landgrave Carl of Hesse-Kassel in 1689 around an east-west axis and were developed further into the 19th century. Reservoirs and channels behind the Hercules Monument supply water to a complex system of hydro-pneumatic devices that supply the site’s large Baroque water theatre, grotto, fountains and 350-metre long Grand Cascade. Beyond this, channels and waterways wind across the axis, feeding a series of dramatic waterfalls and wild rapids, the geyser-like Grand Fountain which leaps 50m high, the lake and secluded ponds that enliven the Romantic garden created in the 18th century by Carl’s great-grandson, Elector Wilhelm I. The great size of the park and its waterworks along with the towering Hercules statue constitute an expression of the ideals of absolutist Monarchy while the ensemble is a remarkable testimony to the aesthetics of the Baroque and Romantic periods.

Schloss Wilhelmshöhe was damaged by Allied bombs in World War II. From 1968 to 1974, it was rebuilt as an art museum. It houses a wallpaper collection, a collection of Graeco-Roman antiques, and a gallery of Old Masters paintings. The collection focuses on the 16th and 17th century, containing masterpieces by German, Italian, French and Spanish painters. It comprises the second-largest collection of Rembrandts in Germany. Rembrandt's famous 'Saskia' and 'The Man with the Slouch Hat' by Frans Hals are among them.

On 23 June 2013 Wilhelmshöhe was proclaimed as a World Heritage Site during the UNESCO meeting in Phnom Penh.

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User Reviews

J. (6 months ago)
It was a pity that it was under construction. However the view over Kassel was nice. It would be much nicer to see the water fountain and the light show.

Sebastian L (6 months ago)
Highly recommended for a day trip. A beautiful large park with a palace, a castle, a big monument, waterfalls and much more

Soraya Lingbeek Lingstra (7 months ago)
It was a pity that the weather was unstable but the temperature not too hot. A huge park which is the main reason for visitors to come to Kassel. This huge park has a lot of grassy areas to chill, interesting plants and I discovered a very effective medicinal plant Taraxacum as well as many flowers. I am so impressed by the combination of historic buildings, places and surrounding mountains. The monument Hercules is the main symbol of Kassel. On a bright day you will have a beautiful view of it from the tram stop Rotes Kreuz, one stop away from the train station. There is a water show in the park which is only three days a week. It is written on the internet. Another alternative is also the tram to Druseltal and bus no 22 and 23. These buses take you to the Hercules monument through a hilly forested landscape. Apart from visiting the park, you can also hike a hilly but technically easy forested area.

Andrew Osborne (7 months ago)
Absolutely stunning. It's a good walk but have lots of water as it's not a quick hike and up hill. It was 28° when I went and I'm a fat old bloke who's only exercise is sitting up in bed when I wake up ??? So it's possible for anyone. Just be aware if you're walking, the last 500+ metres of walkway is up steps so prams, pushchairs etc and as such are not recommended. Stunning views and a lovely restaurant at the top to refuel before the downhill stroll back to one of the many car parks at the bottom. Alternatively, you can drive to the top, but you'll miss out on some lovely little gems along the way. Highly recommended.

Emily Skrede (7 months ago)
A huge park good for walking/running/exploring. The walk was cozy and fun. Highly recommended to reach the top.

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