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The Pfalz
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The word ‘Pfalz’ is derived from ‘palatium’ = palace. The terrace located high above the Rhine behind the Cathedral (Münster) is known as the Pfalz because the bishop’s residence was formally located in the immediate vicinity.
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The Basel Pfalz offers fantastic views across the old town and far beyond into the so-called Dreiländereck, the point where three countries meet. On clear days, looking downstream towards the left, the Vosges Mountains can be seen. The French border is located directly behind the high chemical industry buildings. The green hills behind Kleinbasel are the foothills of the Black Forest, and lie in Germany.
Steps lead down from the Pfalz to the jetty of the Münsterfähre (Cathedral Ferry). This ferryboat is attached to a fixed cable across the Rhine, and crosses the broad river solely with the force of the current. There are three other similar ferries in Basel, and all are popular with the young and old alike.
A narrow archway leads from the terrace to the calm cloister of the Basel Cathedral (Münster). A large number of richly-carved gravestones are displayed here, from members of prominent Basel families dating the period between the 16th and the 19th centuries.
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