Our journey begins in Constance, where the imposing 'Imperia' statue towers over the waters of the lake. This rotating statue, created by sculptor Peter Lenk, is not only a tourist attraction, but also a symbol of the city's history. Standing 9 meters tall and holding figures representing the pope and emperor in its hands, Imperia is a satirical commentary on the Council of Constance in the 15th century. The statue, unveiled in 1993, is controversial, but at the same time fascinates tourists with its monumentality and significance.

Moving along the shore of the lake, we arrive in Lindau, where two more historical treasures await us on the island. The first is the 'Neptunbrunnen', also known as the 'Maximilianbrunnen'. This fountain, dating back to 1840, is the centerpiece of the city's historic square. It depicts the god of the seas, Neptune, and is surrounded by beautiful townhouses, creating a picturesque setting that takes us back in time to the Romantic era.

Not far from Neptune's fountain is another symbol of Lindau - the 'Bayerischer Löwe', or Bavarian Lion. This majestic sculpture, guarding the entrance to the harbor, is not only a landmark, but also a testament to the region's rich history. The lion, symbolizing the strength and pride of Bavaria, provides the perfect backdrop for souvenir photos and is a favorite gathering place for tourists and locals alike.

Comparing the three monuments, each offers a unique experience. 'Imperia' in Constance stands out for its controversiality and modern message, while the Neptune Fountain in Lindau exudes the classic beauty and tranquil atmosphere of a historic marketplace. The Bavarian Lion, on the other hand, impresses with its majesty and strategic waterfront location. All of these sights are easily accessible and free to view, making them ideal excursion points for families with children of all ages.

Continuing our journey along the shores of Lake Constance, we move on to the fascinating world of prehistory at the Pile Dwelling Museum in Uhldingen-Mühlhofen. This remarkable open-air museum offers a unique experience, allowing you to step back in time thousands of years. Reconstructions of houses on stilts, dating from 4,000 to 850 B.C., provide a remarkable insight into the daily life of our Stone and Bronze Age ancestors.

The museum, open from April to November, offers interactive exhibits and craft demonstrations that are fascinating for adults and children alike. The opportunity to walk through authentic reconstructions of prehistoric settlements, viewing tools and everyday objects from thousands of years ago, makes history come alive before our eyes. This place not only educates, but also stimulates the imagination, allowing us to better understand how our ancestors lived.

Leaving the world of prehistory, we move to the Baroque era by visiting the Zisterzienser-Priorat Kloster Birnau. This majestic pilgrimage church, picturesquely located on a lake, is a true gem of Baroque architecture. Built between 1746 and 1750, it impresses not only with its impressive facade, but especially with its rich interior design.

Birnau Monastery, also known as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Protection, is not only a place of religious worship, but also an important point on the cultural map of the region. The richly decorated frescoes, sculptures and altars are the work of the most outstanding artists of the Baroque era. Of particular interest is the miraculous image of the Mother of God, which has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries.

Comparing the two sites, they offer quite different but equally fascinating experiences. The Pile Dwelling Museum takes us back to the distant past, allowing us to touch the lives of prehistoric people, while the Birnau Monastery impresses with its Baroque splendor and spiritual atmosphere. The museum is ideal for families with children, offering interactive and educational attractions, while the monastery appeals more to art and architecture lovers and those seeking a spiritual experience.

Both sites are easily accessible, though it's worth keeping in mind the seasonality of the museum's opening. The Pile Dwelling Museum offers admission at affordable prices, with discounts for families, while admission to the Birnau Monastery is free, making it an attractive excursion point for everyone, regardless of budget. Whether you're interested in prehistory or Baroque architecture, both of these sites are unforgettable points on your itinerary around Lake Constance.

Our journey in the footsteps of history at Lake Constance was a fascinating trek through different eras and styles. From the monumental 'Imperia' in Constance, to the classical Neptune Fountain and the majestic Bavarian Lion in Lindau, to the prehistoric settlements at the Pile Dwelling Museum and the Baroque splendor of Birnau Monastery, each monument offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history.

Comparing all the sites visited, we can see how diverse the attractions are, both in terms of historical eras and the experiences offered. 'Empires' in Constance, with its controversial history and modern message, is an interesting contrast to the classical beauty of the Neptune fountain in Lindau. The Bavarian Lion, symbolizing the region's strength and pride, perfectly completes the picture of the lakeside cities' historical heritage.

The Pile Dwelling Museum offers a unique, interactive experience, putting visitors in direct contact with prehistory. It is an ideal place for families with children, where learning history becomes a fascinating adventure. Birnau Monastery, on the other hand, takes us into a world of Baroque splendor and spirituality, offering not only an aesthetic experience, but also a moment of reflection and peace.

In terms of accessibility and cost, most of these attractions are easily accessible and relatively inexpensive. The monuments in Constance and Lindau can be viewed free of charge, making them ideal points on the map for travelers on a tight budget. The Pile Dwelling Museum, although requiring an admission ticket, offers family discounts, making it attractive for families with children. Birnau Monastery, with free admission, is an excellent example of how a high-end monument can be accessible to all.

When planning a trip, keep in mind the seasonality of some attractions. The Pile Dwelling Museum is open from spring to autumn, which should be factored into travel plans. In contrast, monuments in the cities and Birnau Monastery are open year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season.

All in all, Lake Constance and its surroundings are a veritable treasure trove of history, offering attractions for everyone - from art and architecture lovers, to history enthusiasts, to families looking for educational entertainment. Each of the monuments visited not only tells a fascinating story, but also allows you to interact with the past in a unique way. Whether one is interested in ancient settlements, medieval cities or Baroque architecture, the Lake Constance region has something to offer, making a journey through the ages an unforgettable experience for the whole family.