Eltz Castle
Rheinland-Pfalz
Eltz Castle, located in the hills above the Moselle River between Koblenz and Trier in Germany, is a remarkable medieval castle that has been continuously owned by the House of Eltz since the 12th century. It uniquely survived destruction, unlike many castles in the region, preserving its original medieval character. The castle is perched on a 70-meter-high rock spur surrounded on three sides by the Elzbach River, offering natural fortification. Architecturally, it is a Ganerbenburg, meaning it was built to house multiple branches of the Eltz family, each with their own living quarters and towers, totaling eight towers reaching up to 40 meters high. Historically, it played a significant role protecting trade routes in the Moselle Valley and Eifel region during the Holy Roman Empire. The castle's complex includes several parts built in Romanesque and Late Gothic styles, such as the Platteltz keep from the 12th century and the Greater Rodendorf House completed around 1520. Eltz Castle also endured a notable siege during the Eltz Feud in the 14th century, demonstrating its strategic importance. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life, complete with over 100 rooms and a rich collection of historical artifacts. The surrounding Eltz Forest is a protected nature reserve, adding to the castle's scenic and ecological value.
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Tip: Visit Eltz Castle in the spring to early autumn when it is open to the public, typically from late March. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. The castle is accessible by car, with parking available nearby, or by public transport with shuttle bus connections. Walking paths, including one with a scenic viewpoint known as the “500-DM-Blick,” offer beautiful approaches to the castle. Group tours and guided visits are available, and discounted tickets may be offered for families, seniors, or groups. Cash is required for parking and shuttle bus fees, so plan accordingly.
Interesting facts
- •Eltz Castle is one of the few castles in the Eifel region never destroyed by war or conflict.
- •The castle is built on a 70-meter-high rock spur surrounded on three sides by the Elzbach River.
- •Eltz Castle is a Ganerbenburg, meaning it was jointly owned and inhabited by multiple family branches.
- •During the 14th century Eltz Feud, the castle was besieged for two years and bombarded with early cannons and catapults.
- •The castle contains eight towers reaching heights between 30 and 40 meters, housing over 100 rooms.
- •The surrounding Eltz Forest is a designated nature reserve under the Flora-Fauna-Habitat and Natura 2000 programs.
History
Eltz Castle was founded in the early 12th century along an important medieval trade route connecting the Moselle region to fertile farmlands.
Initially, the site hosted a simple manor hall before the House of Eltz began constructing the Romanesque Platteltz keep.
The castle grew over centuries into a Ganerbenburg shared by three family branches, incorporating multiple residential towers.
In the 14th century, it withstood a two-year siege during the Eltz Feud against the Archbishop of Trier, after which the castle's owners became vassals.
The 15th and 16th centuries saw the addition of Late Gothic structures such as the Greater Rodendorf House and the House of Rübenach.
The castle has remained in the Eltz family for over 800 years and has never been destroyed by war or conflict.
Place Guide
Platteltz Keep12th century
The oldest part of Eltz Castle, this Romanesque keep dates back to the 12th century and served as the original fortified manor hall. It features thick stone walls and was central to the castle's defense.
Greater Rodendorf House1470-1520
Built starting in 1470, this 10-story Late Gothic residence includes the flag hall with a vaulted ceiling, likely originally a chapel. It was completed around 1520 and named after the family's Lorraine holdings.
House of Rübenach1472
Completed in 1472, this wing showcases Late Gothic architecture, including the Rübenach Lower Hall, living room, and an ornately decorated bedchamber.
Trutzeltz Castle Ruins1331-1336
Located on a rocky outcrop above Eltz Castle, this small siege castle was built by Archbishop Balduin of Trier during the 14th-century siege to bombard Eltz Castle with primitive cannons and catapults.
Contact
Phone: 02672 950500
