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Discover Germany

October 11, 2010

The Moselle Valley is known as Germany's oldest wine-growing region - it was the Romans who began the tradition. Because of its mild climate and the slate content of its soil, the area specializes in white wines.

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Porta Nigra in Trier
Porta Nigra is just one of the architectural treasures the Roman left behind in TrierImage: Stadt Trier

The city of Trier, one of Germany's oldest cities, lies on the central stretch of the Moselle. Founded in 16 BC by the Romans, the city still bears many traces of their presence. The town's main landmark is the Porta Nigra, the black city gate.

If you travel on one of the many cruise vessels that ply the Moselle, you have a beautiful view of the steeply sloping vineyards along the river banks. And if you'd like to pick grapes yourself, you can do so at many of the numerous wine-growing estates.

The Moselle Valley is also attractive to hikers and walkers. You can go from Koblenz to Trier on foot on both sides of the river. There are many romantic spots on the banks of the Moselle, such as Bernkastel-Kues, with its half-timbered buildings. If you're interested in knights in shining armor, there are plenty of castles around, including Burg Eltz, one of the most beautiful in Germany.

Click on the video below for a personal tour of the Moselle Valley by Sonja Christ, the 2009-10 German Wine Queen.

Text: DW-TV

Editor: Kate Bowen