Eltz Castle, Medieval castle in Wierschem, Germany
Burg Eltz is a medieval fortress standing on a 70-meter-high (230-foot) rock in Wierschem, encircled by the Elzbach stream. The structure rises through eight floors and holds more than 100 rooms inside its walls.
Construction began during the Romanesque period, and in 1157 Emperor Frederick Barbarossa formally recognized the fortress as an important stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire. Over the following centuries, the building received several extensions and acquired Gothic as well as later stylistic elements.
The building takes its name from the small Elz stream that flows around the rock, giving the site its sheltered position. Inside the rooms, visitors find original furniture and artworks showing how noble families lived and arranged their spaces over the centuries.
The fortress opens from March 24 through November 1 and offers guided tours starting at 9:30 in the morning. Access is not possible for wheelchair users, as steep paths and staircases shape the approach to the site.
The Eltz family has lived in the building continuously since the 12th century and still occupies part of the rooms today. This uninterrupted continuity is rare among European castles and makes the site a living testimony to noble residential culture.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
