The foundation stone for Valhalla was ceremoniously laid on the historic date of October 18, 1830, a deliberate choice that commemorated the 17th anniversary of the Battle of the Nations near Leipzig. This pivotal event in German history marked a somber moment of defeat, and with the construction of Valhalla, it sought to serve as a symbol of collective German identity and pride. The ambitious undertaking spanned over a dozen years, culminating in the completion of this colossal stone edifice in 1842. The pristine white stone used in its construction was sourced from the Altmühltal, in close proximity to Kelheim, forging a geographical connection to the region.