Arkona Cape

Cape Arkona projects into the Baltic from the northern tip of Rügen, its steep cliffs marking the island's shore for passing mariners. On the headland stood a fortified sanctuary of the Rani, dedicated to the god Svantovit. In 1168 King Valdemar of Denmark and Bishop Absalon captured the stronghold and destroyed the temple, bringing Rügen under Danish overlordship. The exposed cliffs have since steadily yielded ground to the sea.