Remember the boom of cannons echoing through the ages? Today, we stand at Kanonenplatz. It is also known as Cannon Square. This spot offers more than just a view. It offers a journey into Freiburg’s past.
Kanonenplatz sits high above Freiburg’s old town. It’s a panoramic viewpoint and a meeting place. It is also a gateway to hiking trails around Schlossberg. At 306 meters high, Kanonenplatz gives us sweeping views. We can see the Freiburg districts of Wiehre and Oberau. To the east, the Dreisamtal valley unfolds. The High Black Forest stands grandly in the distance.
Gaze south. Marvel at the Schönberg. It rises to 644 meters. See also Lorettoberg. Turning west, the old town’s rooftops stretch out. You can even see the silhouette of the cashier’s chair.
The name “Kanonenplatz” comes from its past. From 1677 to 1745, Schlossberg became a fortress. Kanonenplatz was a bastion then. Hermann von Greiffenegg built a late Baroque villa on Schlossberg in 1805. He called it Greiffeneggschlössle. Soon after, Kanonenplatz was established above the Schlössle.
The Zähringens built Burghaldenschloss. It stood above Kanonenplatz on Schlossbergnase. In 1820, for the town jubilee, it was named Ludwigshöhe. This honored the Grand Duke.
Interestingly, Kanonenplatz does not have cannons now. Instead, it has telescopes. These let us enjoy the breathtaking view. The view sweeps over the city. The Münster is almost within reach. On clear days, you can see the Rhine valley and the Vosges Mountains in France.
Kanonenplatz is romantic. Imagine the sun setting behind the Vosges. The Münster glows pink. For an even wider view, climb the Salzbüchsletreppe to Ludwigshöhe. From the Schlossberg tower, see the Breisgau and beyond.
The Kuratorium is dedicated to this history. Many Freiburgers know the name Kanonenplatz. They spent their childhoods on this mountain. But they know little about this historic place. The name “Kanonenplatz” is not random. It stands on the site of Vauban’s former fortifications.
From Kanonenplatz, a footpath leads to Ludwigshöhe. Explore this spot. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Freiburg’s Schlossberg. The Schlossberg Railway provides easy access. It is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. From the mountain station, a path leads to Burghaldering. You can reach Kanonenplatz from there without hills.
So, as you stand here, remember the history beneath your feet. Kanonenplatz is more than a viewpoint. It is a reminder of Freiburg’s rich heritage.