Marksburg Castle
Rheinland-Pfalz
Marksburg Castle, situated above the town of Braubach in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, is a remarkable medieval hill castle dating back to the 13th century. It was originally known as Burg Brubach and strategically built on a slate cone at an elevation of 186 meters to secure the Rhine crossing and valley routes from the Taunus region. Unlike many castles along the Rhine, Marksburg was never conquered or destroyed, preserving its medieval structure almost intact, aside from some damage during artillery fire in 1945. Over centuries, the castle was expanded and transformed, especially under the Counts of Katzenelnbogen in the 14th and 15th centuries, who added Gothic elements and residential improvements. The castle's chapel, dedicated to Saint Mark, was first mentioned in 1437, giving the castle its modern name. Today, Marksburg is a protected cultural monument and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Visitors can explore its fortifications, residential quarters, and enjoy garden tours, theatrical guided tours, and seasonal special events that bring its rich history to life.
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Tip: The best time to visit Marksburg Castle is during the warmer months when the medieval show garden tours are available. Winter months offer exclusive atmospheric light tours. Advance booking is recommended for special guided tours such as the theatrical 'Faces of History' tours. Discounts may be available for groups, families, or educational visits. The castle is accessible by public transport to Braubach with a short uphill walk or shuttle service.
Interesting facts
- •Marksburg Castle is the only medieval hill castle on the Middle Rhine that has never been destroyed or conquered.
- •The castle’s chapel dedicated to Saint Mark was first documented in 1437, influencing the castle’s current name.
- •In 2002, Marksburg became part of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley.
- •The castle has been the seat of the German Castle Association (Deutsche Burgenvereinigung) for over 100 years.
- •Marksburg sits on a slate cone 186 meters above sea level, strategically overseeing the Rhine crossing and valley routes.
History
Marksburg Castle was first mentioned in 1231, though it likely existed since the early 12th century.
Initially owned by the Eppstein family, it came under the Counts of Katzenelnbogen in 1283, who extensively rebuilt and expanded it through the 14th and 15th centuries.
The castle was renamed Marksburg in the 16th century after its chapel dedicated to Saint Mark.
Unlike many castles in the region, it was never destroyed or conquered.
In 1479, the castle and town passed to the Landgraviate of Hesse, and later to Hesse-Darmstadt.
Despite some damage during World War II, Marksburg remains the only medieval hill castle on the Middle Rhine to have survived intact and continues to be a symbol of regional heritage.
Place Guide
The Outer Gate and Defensive Walls13th century
Marksburg’s fortified entrance and surrounding walls illustrate medieval defensive architecture designed to protect the castle from invaders.
The Saint Mark's Chapel1437
First mentioned in 1437, this chapel dedicated to Saint Mark is a central feature of the castle and gave Marksburg its modern name.
The Residential Quarters14th-15th century
Expanded and remodeled in the Gothic style during the 14th and 15th centuries, these quarters show the evolution of medieval noble living standards.
The Medieval Show Garden
A unique garden that recreates medieval horticulture, available for guided tours during the growing season.
The German Castle Association Headquarters20th century to present
Marksburg has been the seat of the Deutsche Burgenvereinigung for over a century, serving as a hub for castle preservation efforts.
Contact
Phone: 02627 536