Kassel: River joys and traditions at the largest waterproof Zissel!

Kassel: River joys and traditions at the largest waterproof Zissel!

Kassel, a city with rich history, is often perceived as non -river -oriented, especially compared to other large cities such as Cologne or Hamburg. But the North Hessian metropolis has more to offer than it appears. The Fulda flows through the city majestically and is an important attraction for locals and tourists alike. This was also confirmed by an article by HNA, which deals with the meaning and use of the river.

A little more about the river landscape of Kassel can be found on the Fulda promenade, which was opened in 2009 and extends over 2.8 kilometers. Here you can go for a walk and enjoy nature while the cycle path R1, which extends over 255 kilometers along the Fulda, rewarded cyclists with wonderful views of the water.

a piece of history on the water

The water use in Kassel has a long history. For example, the river pool was opened in 1923 and at that time attracted up to 17,000 people. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in the Second World War, but for Documenta 2022 it was temporarily revived as a air bath. The Kassel city lock, which was built in 1913, finally got its business again in 2023 after seven years of renovation. This lock connects Kassel with the lower Fulda and even with the Weser, which leads to the North Sea. The city took over the financing of this important infrastructure after the federal government no longer provided funds.

The Fulda is also a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Despite the suboptimal water quality, it attracts canoeists, rowers and swimmers. If you are interested in water sports, Kassel is exactly the right place. Embedded in this river landscape is the annual Zissel event, a home and water festival that has been celebrated on the first weekend in August since 1926. It attracts tens of thousands of visitors and enjoys great popularity and tradition.

The zissel fixed: highlights and traditions

The origins of the zissel are not entirely clear, but indications from the 19th century show that boat trips on the Fulda were very popular at the time. At the beginning of the 20th century, shipper celebrated from the Unterneustadt with illuminated boats and beer. In the 1920s, water sports clubs established the festival and the celebrations moved from the first locations on the Altmarkt and in the stall to the river bank.

The zissel not only offers a water parade, but also exciting water skiing show performances. Tens of thousands come to Kassel every year to admire the imaginative illuminations. A firm custom is the hoist of "Zisselhäring", which symbolizes the thirst and is often accompanied loudly by the celebrations. The traditional announcement "Full water, full water, Hoi, Hoi, Hoi" is simply part of it.

Kassel: More than just a river

Kassel itself has an exciting past. The city, originally known as "Chassalla", was first mentioned in 913. Over the centuries, she developed into the capital of the Electorate of Hesse. Kassel became a center for science and culture among the landgraves. The Grimm brothers were active here and contributed to German romance by collecting their “children's and household tales”. Even today Kassel is still a lively city that is shaped by events and festivals such as the Zissel.

In Kassel, the possibilities of a harmonious life between the river, culture and tradition are shown. A visit to the city is definitely worth it - whether for the flood festival or simply to explore the beautiful nature and the multifaceted story. There is something for everyone here!