The Rappanlage

Before the river Eisack was regulated, it met the river Rienz at almost a right angle, which had time and again led to dangerous blocks and huge floods, most notably in 1520, 1757, 1839 and 1882. Works to regulate the river finally started in 1883, when the river bed was narrowed and its water course adjusted. It also involved the building of the area called “Rappanlage” with its riverside promenade. The two rivers now run parallel to each other until where the Rienz meets the faster-flowing Eisack. The Rappanlage green has since become a peaceful park with plenty of benches in the shade of chestnut trees. While the area west of the Old Town used to be sparsely populated before the late 19th century because of the risk of flooding, it has developed into a popular neighbourhood in the past century. The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of the city of Prague who is believed to protect against floods and troubled waters, is a reminder of the devastating power the river used to have.

Interesting detail

The park is named after the former governor of Tyrol Dr. F. von Rapp as it was created during his term of office.