The 38-metre Niederwald monument was built between 1877 and 1883 based on plans by Dresden’s Johann Schilling. Its design and dimensions are still impressive, even though the reason for its construction – the founding of the German Empire following victory in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71 – is of course out of date in a united Europe. The monument’s centrepiece is the 12-metre-high figure of Germania complete with Imperial Crown and Imperial Sword. It can be conveniently accessed by gondola lift or chairlift from Rüdesheim am Rhein and Assmannshausen. The panoramic view far over the Rhine Valley makes a spectacular background for selfies.