Maus Castle, Medieval castle in Sankt Goarshausen, Germany
Maus Castle is a medieval fortress on the east bank of the Rhine near Sankt Goarshausen, perched on a steep hillside. The structure is protected by a round tower on its uphill side and dominates the riverside landscape with its compact form.
Construction began in 1353 under Archbishop-Elector Bohemond II of Trier to enforce toll rights and secure the border along the Rhine. The fortress endured through the centuries as a key strategic position for the archbishopric.
The castle's name came from the Counts of Katzenelnbogen, who compared it to their own Katz Castle as a playful reference to the predator-prey relationship. Visitors can still appreciate this witty naming when viewing both fortifications from the river.
The best time to visit is from late March to early October, when falconry demonstrations featuring hawks, owls, and eagles are held regularly. Wear sturdy shoes since access involves steep paths and stairs.
Unlike many other Rhine fortifications, this castle survived intact through the centuries despite a period of neglect in the 1500s and 1600s. This remarkable preservation makes it a rare testament to medieval military architecture along the river.
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