Burg Katzenelnbogen, Medieval castle in Katzenelnbogen, Germany
Burg Katzenelnbogen is a medieval fortress situated on a hilltop between the Rhine Valley and the Forstbach Valley. The structure features the typical layout of a medieval stronghold with thick stone walls, defensive towers, and a prominent central keep.
Construction began around 1371 under Count Wilhelm II of Katzenelnbogen as a vital stronghold to govern the Rhine region. The fortress became a key element in a broader network of fortifications established across the valley.
The castle defines the village of Katzenelnbogen today through its medieval outline and role as a local landmark. Residents identify with this historic structure that dominates the valley and shapes the area's identity.
The castle remains in private ownership and is not open to visitors. Good views of the structure can be obtained from the nearby village of St. Goar, which offers a clear vantage point of the hilltop location.
The valley between the Rhine and Forstbach was particularly valuable for trade routes, and the fortress allowed its lords to monitor all traffic passing through the region. This strategic purpose made it one of the most important structures in the area.
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