“What if the Rhine could talk?” Consider this as we stand before the Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört. This nature center is more than just a building. It is a gateway to understanding the Rhine’s secrets and the floodplain’s wonders.
The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört sits nestled on the Rhine island of Rappenwört. It is surrounded by the Old Rhine and a vibrant forest. Large wooden sculptures greet you. Game enclosures house wild boar, red deer and fallow deer. They line the path from the streetcar stop to the center.
This isn’t just any nature center. It is housed in a protected Bauhaus building. Walter Merz designed it. The building once served as a municipal ornithological station. Mayor Schneider envisioned it as part of his green space plan. The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört was reopened in April 1997.
Inside the Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört, a modern permanent exhibition awaits. It reveals the secrets of the Rhine floodplain. Display boards and models illustrate the Rhine’s history. They explain the ecological importance of the floodplain. Threats posed by human use are also explored. Computer simulations trace the transformation of the Rhine floodplain. A 3D real-time visualization lets you experience a dyke collapse.
For younger visitors, a children’s and family adventure room offers playful learning. Nature conservation topics are presented in a child-friendly way. “Pitsch” the big blue drop of water guides you through the water cycle. The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört also has an information desk with a store.
Throughout the year, the Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört hosts temporary exhibitions. Lectures, seminars, and workshops are offered. Nature experience days and vacation programs are available. Children’s birthday parties can even be celebrated here. Natural history and nature education tours are part of the program.
You can explore the forest adventure trail and the math trail. A mobile outdoor guide provides interesting facts about the floodplain forest. Use a GPS device to track down the “floodplain geocache”.
The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört is the northern portal of the German-French Ramsar area “Oberrhein/ Rhin supérieu”. Therefore the exhibition is multilingual.
The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört was founded in 1996 as a foundation under civil law.
Before we move on remember that the Naturschutzentrum Rappenwört is open Tuesday to Friday from 12 to 5 pm. On Sundays and public holidays, it is open from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission is free.
The Naturschutzzentrum Rappenwört stands as a testament. It highlights our connection to the natural world. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you. Consider the importance of preserving these valuable ecosystems.