Rastplatz Kirchenplatz

Welcome to the Kirchenplatz Rest Area in St. Nikola

The Danube, a defining feature of Europe…
The Danube, Europe’s second-longest river, together with the Alps, is the defining natural feature of Austria. In addition to its importance to humans as a waterway, it plays another vital role as a dispersal corridor for animal and plant species. It connects people, plants, and animals from all regions and directions. Through its many tributaries, it is also linked to mountain ranges such as the Alps and the Carpathians. Much of its natural character has been lost due to numerous river engineering projects. Nevertheless, it boasts the richest fish fauna of any river in Europe.

Everything comes back to life—even “The Mermaid’s Thanks.” The legend of the Danube tells the story of exactly how that happened.