Edersee-Atlantis: Sunken villages reappear!

Edersee-Atlantis: Sunken villages reappear!

A low water level in the Edersee these days brings fascinating views of the ruins of sunken settlements known as “Edersee-Atlantis”. The remains of former villages such as Asel, Berich and Bringhausen are visible again and invite you to take a journey into the past. These places were abandoned over 110 years ago when the Edersee was created through the construction of the Eder Dam, which was built from 1908 to 1914. An impressive 300,000 cubic meters of quarry stone were processed to create the third largest reservoir in Germany, which has a storage volume of 200 million cubic meters, as hessenschau.de reports.

As the water level recedes, visitors enjoy the opportunity to explore the remnants of these ancient villages. The old Aseler Bridge in particular stands out as it rises from a water level of 235.10 m above sea level. NN is visible and is considered the best preserved structure. Other discovery sites include the graves and remains of the wall of Alt-Bringhausen as well as the village of Berich and an old model of the barrier wall. These remains are not only important for those interested in history, but also offer attractive photo opportunities, such as the Bericher Hütte or the “Schöne Aussicht” view on the Kahle Hardt route.

Edersee-Atlantis: A digital journey of discovery

Visitors who want to learn more about the history of this region will find numerous opportunities to experience the past up close at Edersee. New is the augmented reality app, which is available at the old village of Berich and allows you to virtually explore the disappeared village. City thrillers are also offered that send the audience on an exciting search for clues through the old Eder Valley. A meditation path is also planned that promotes quiet reflection at selected stations, as the website edersee-atlantis.com describes.

Edersee Atlantis traditionally appears when the water level is low in late summer or autumn. This natural feature is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a living reminder of the past. The visitor center and leisure activities around the Edersee, which only opened in 2023, cost around two million euros and provide the public with a fascinating virtual exhibition on the history of the Edersee, which further fuels interest.Edersee-Atlantis remains a living piece of history that can be felt at any time and offers a good hand for exciting leisure activities.

A region full of adventure

For nature lovers, there is much more to discover at Edersee: from 16 hiking trails to the impressive treetop path to the viewing terrace at Waldeck Castle, which offers a breathtaking view over the lake. The wildlife park in Hemfurth attracts visitors with its native animal species and the air show at the Edersee Greifenwarte. Adventure seekers will find an amusement park and summer toboggan run near Waldeck - a true paradise for young and old.

When the former villages of Edersee come back when the water is low, it is clear: not only is nature admired here, but a piece of Rhenish history is also kept alive.

For everyone who would like to experience Edersee-Atlantis for themselves, now is the ideal opportunity - the ruins are calling and the stories of the past are waiting to be discovered!