Jardin des Deux Rives, or Garten der zwei Ufer in German, is a unique and enchanting public park that spans the banks of the Rhine River, connecting the towns of Kehl in Germany and Strasbourg in France. This extraordinary 40-hectare park, inaugurated in 2004 as part of the State Garden Show, is a symbol of unity and cooperation, bridging not only two cities but also two nations. With 15 hectares on the German side and 25 hectares on the French side, the park offers a plethora of attractions, activities, and stunning landscapes that make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
The story of Jardin des Deux Rives begins with the Rhine River itself, which has long been a natural border and a significant waterway for both Germany and France. The river's course was straightened in the mid-19th century by Johann Gottfried Tulla, making it more navigable and predictable. This transformation paved the way for increased interaction between Kehl and Strasbourg, especially after the construction of the railway bridge over the Rhine in 1861.
In the early 20th century, the Kehl riverbank was developed into a residential area, turning the former commission island into a popular recreational spot. Similarly, the French side of the Rhine became a favored leisure area after World War I, complete with summer gardens, games, and concert halls. The Parc du Rhin, established in the 1960s, served as a precursor to the present-day Jardin des Deux Rives.
The idea for a cross-border garden was conceived by Strasbourg city councilor and artist Michel Krieger in 1995. He envisioned a garden that would transform the historically divisive Rhine into a symbol of reconciliation and unity. The project gained momentum, and by 1997, the municipalities of Kehl and Strasbourg had secured the bid to host the 2004 State Garden Show with their joint park proposal. The winning design by landscape architect Rüdiger Brosk and the Agirbas/Wienstroer architectural firm included a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge, the Passerelle des Deux Rives, as the park's centerpiece.
The heart of Jardin des Deux Rives is undoubtedly the Passerelle des Deux Rives. This elegant bridge, designed by Parisian architect Marc Mimram, connects the German and French sides of the park. The bridge features two walkways that meet on a central platform in the middle of the Rhine, offering breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding landscapes. The shorter walkway is reserved for pedestrians, while the longer one accommodates cyclists and wheelchair users. Spanning a total length of 387 meters, the bridge is a testament to the park's mission of unity and accessibility.
The German side of Jardin des Deux Rives boasts several notable attractions. The Weißtannenturm, a 44-meter-high observation tower erected in 2003, offers panoramic views of the park and the Rhine. The Biblical Garden, featuring 17 steles that depict significant events from the Old and New Testaments, provides a contemplative and educational experience. The UFO Pavilion, an exhibit space designed in the shape of a UFO, was constructed for the 2004 State Garden Show and continues to host various exhibitions and educational programs.
Visitors can also explore the Alliance Memorial, a plaque commemorating the members of the Réseau Alliance resistance group who were executed by the Gestapo in 1944. Nearby stands the bronze sculpture Begegnung (Encounter) by Munich sculptor Josef Fromm, symbolizing the friendly relations between Kehl and Strasbourg, as well as between Germany and France. The Geschichtsband, a bronze sculpture by artist Kurt Tassotti, chronicles the history of the region and was installed in 2010. Additionally, the German side features a playful water landscape that connects the Rhine with the nearby Old Rhine, providing a fun and interactive space for children and families.
The French side of Jardin des Deux Rives is equally captivating. The main attraction is the 250-meter-long water wall, a semi-circular natural stone structure that stands between two and five meters high. Visitors can stroll along the top of the wall, while the base is adorned with water gardens filled with lilies and other aquatic plants. The Planetenweg, a 281.5-meter-long planetary path scaled at 1:16 billion, extends from the Passerelle des Deux Rives and offers an educational journey through our solar system.
Other notable features include the Alliance Memorial, dedicated to 29 members of the Réseau Alliance who were executed in Kehl, Bühl, and Rastatt in 1944. The Tassigny Memorial honors Marshal de Lattre de Tassigny, the commander of the 1st French Army. The temporary gardens, or Jardins éphémères, showcase themed gardens created by various French gardeners and are regularly updated. The Izanai 2004 installation, a walkable artwork by Akio Suzuki, consists of two curved walls that invite exploration. Additionally, a former bunker near the riverbank has been preserved and painted, adding a historical touch to the park.
Jardin des Deux Rives is not only a place of natural beauty but also a vibrant cultural hub. Since 2005, the Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra has hosted a free open-air concert, the Symphonie des Deux Rives, on the French side of the park every summer. The Garden//Garden association, established in 2001, organizes regular events related to the park, including a monthly Café//Kuchen gathering on the Passerelle des Deux Rives platform.
In the summer, the Guinguette du Rhin hosts dance events, while the UFO Pavilion continues to offer environmental exhibitions and educational sessions. The Rheinfest, held sporadically on both sides of the Rhine, celebrates the region's cultural heritage. The Sokan drumming group also hosts participatory concerts on the riverbank during the summer months. The Feldscheune, located next to the Weißtannenturm, frequently hosts festivals, markets, and exhibitions. Additionally, the German side features a fitness trail with 20 stations, and artists annually paint specially erected billboards, which are displayed throughout the summer.
Jardin des Deux Rives is easily accessible by public transportation. Visitors can take bus line 2 or tram line D of the CTS to the Jardin des deux rives stop. The park is also a short 300-meter walk from the Kehl train station.
In conclusion, Jardin des Deux Rives is a remarkable testament to the power of unity and collaboration. Its diverse attractions, cultural events, and stunning landscapes make it an essential destination for anyone visiting the Kehl-Strasbourg region. Whether you're strolling across the Passerelle des Deux Rives, exploring the historical monuments, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, this cross-border park offers something for everyone.
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