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The Altmühl is a river in Bavaria, Germany. It is a left tributary of the river Danube and is approximately 230 kilometres (140 mi) long. The source of the Altmühl is close to the town of Ansbach. From here the river runs southeastwards as a narrow brook to enter the Altmühlsee (a lake) north of Gunzenhausen. After leaving Gunzenhausen the river describes a broad curve through the Franconian Jura. It enters the Naturpark Altmühltal (Altmühl Valley Nature Park), which is known for its natural environment. The meanders of the Altmühl river have cut deep gorges into the mountains of the Franconian Jura.