Castle Eyneburg, Medieval castle in Hergenrath, Belgium
Castle Eyneburg is a medieval fortress on a hilltop near Hergenrath, in the municipality of Kelmis in the German-speaking part of Belgium. It has a round tower with a pointed roof and thick enclosing walls that surround the entire property.
The fortress was first mentioned in written records in 1260, built to protect the nearby Galmeiberg mining operations that were economically important for the region. A serious fire in 1640 left lasting damage that permanently changed the look of the structure.
Two stone coats of arms carved into the outer walls date from the 16th and 18th centuries and point to the noble families who owned the property in succession. Walking around the grounds, visitors can spot these carved reliefs up close and get a sense of how ownership shifted over time.
Marked forest trails from the nearby parking area lead around the property and offer views of the tower and walls from several angles. The site sits on elevated ground, so sturdy footwear is a good idea, especially in wet weather.
In the late 1800s, cloth manufacturer Theodor Nellessen filled the interior with a large collection of antique furniture and art objects that he had gathered himself. This turned a former military fortress into a private home with the feel of a manor house.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.