Felsenmeer

Jeff had to go back to the US to work for almost three weeks so the kids and I were on our own for a while. Last week Sunday we decided to go to the Nature Park, Felsenmeer, after church. We had seen pictures, the weather was nice and it wasn't too far away - perfect.

Felsenmeer was formed when lava seeped through the earth 1000's/millions of years ago. The lava hardened as granite and over time water, temperature and wind caused the granite to crack and round. Now there is a river of huge granite rocks "running" down the side of this mountain.

The legend associated with the river of rocks is more interesting than the scientific explanation. The legend says there were two giants living on neighboring mountains. They had a fight and started throwing huge rocks at each other. Felsenmeer is what is left of the giant that lost the fight - the neighboring mountain has not rocks (the winning giant threw them all) - and the legend says the losing giant is buried under this river of rocks!

We hiked up the mountain, through the woods.

This rock is "the crocodile".

The boys spent quite a bit of time climbing and exploring the rock river - great fun!

There is evidence of quarrying this area that dates to several centuries BC. Two of the huge stone pillars in the Trier cathedral came from Felsenmeer. This pillar did not make it out of the quarry.

A very fun day!