Abstract. In the Middle and Lower Rhine Valley the age of loess deposits is recognized by their relation to the Lower Middle Terrace of the Mosel and Rhine Rivers. Nearly all loess is regarded to be Würm-loess, which is separated by several soil zones. In the lower part of the Würm-period climatic changes are clearly indicated by thickly and well developed soil zones („Parabraunerde"). Later on soil zones become generally thin and less distinct („Naßböden"). In this later period, at some places, one soil zone is typical („kalkhaltige Braunerde"). In the profile of Metternich this horizon included artifacts (Gravettian).