At the Marksburg Castle, located in the town of Braubach, Germany

Marksburg Castle, in Germany, is a Fortress Frozen in Time
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(in the scenic Rhine River Valley of Germany) Marksburg Castle (Schloss Marksburg), with its rich history, UNESCO World Heritage status, and breathtaking views of the Rhine is a remarkable medieval fortress and a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and castle lovers alike. Unlike many other German castles, Marksburg has withstood the test of time and has never been destroyed. Its impressive architecture and well-preserved structures provide a glimpse into the past, transporting visitors back to the era of knights and battles. As a recognized historical landmark, Marksburg Castle offers a captivating castle tour that allows visitors to explore its interior, including the master bedroom, the wine cellar, and the “Schartentor” (a little gate or passageway through city walls) with its defensive machicolation (an opening -- or series of openings -- in a projecting parapet (low wall, like a ledge) between corbels (triangular brackets) on a medieval castle. . The castle’s gardens and outdoor observation deck also offer stunning views of the Rhine and the surrounding hills.

Located in the town of Braubach, Marksburg Castle is easily accessible and serves as a gateway to the enchanting Rhine Valley. Visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of the nearby town, indulge in local cuisine, and embark on scenic walks or bike rides along the Rhine. If you are planning a visit to Marksburg Castle, you can find a range of accommodations in Braubach for a comfortable stay. (Make the most of your time in the Rhine Valley by exploring other attractions in the area or simply relaxing amid the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.)

+ Marksburg is the only one of the 40 hill castles in this stretch of the river that has never been destroyed or fallen into disrepair. First mentioned in 1231, the Romanesque castle was built high above the river, with a triangular layout that it retains today. Its builders were one of the most powerful families of the time, as were the next owners, who built the Gothic parts of the castle that give it much of its present-day appearance. When Marksburg passed to the Landgraves of Hesse in 1479, they turned it into a fortress, adding ramparts and batteries. After entering through a drawbridge gate, visitors come to a second medieval gateway, then a third before reaching Riders Stairway, a winding series of steps carved from the bedrock in a shallow series that could be ascended on horseback. From here, you can explore the batteries, the medieval cellars, a herb garden, the kitchen, Great Hall, a bedroom, and a 14th-century chapel with painted walls and ceilings. (Climb the tower for great views across the Rhine.)