Wednesday 18 July 2007

The Eifel A Short History

Even though the history of the Eifel can be traced back much farther, one of the most historical events that influenced the whole region was the Gallic War, (58-50 BC) when the Romans under Julius Caesar defeated the Kelts and began to settle in the valley along the Mosel River.

This area was very important for trade purposes, because several water ways- the Saar, Mosel, Ruver, and Rhine Rivers met not far away, and the Romans could control much of the shipping to many different locations.

During the approximately 400 years of Roman Rule, many beautiful structures including Villas, Cathedrals, and Monasterys were built through-out the Eifel, several of which are still standing.

Perhaps one of the greatest Engineering feats during this time was the Viaduct constructed to bring fresh drinking water from the Eifel Mountains to Cologne. Parts of this can still be seen.

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