Rheinstein Castle, Gothic spur castle in Trechtingshausen, Germany
The castle rises roughly 80 meters (270 feet) above the Rhine and combines Gothic architecture with defensive features like a working drawbridge and portcullis at its entrance. The structure includes a chapel, a knight's hall, and multiple towers that show both medieval living quarters and fortification design.
The castle was built under the Archbishopric of Mainz and served as a customs post for the German Empire starting around 1290. This role made it an important checkpoint for river trade and shaped its importance for centuries.
The chapel displays a wooden Gothic altarpiece showing the Last Supper, while stained glass windows from the Middle Ages decorate the knight's hall. These artworks show how religious life and knightly culture were deeply connected in this place.
The castle offers guided and self-guided tours in German and English, with a cafe serving local dishes and a gift shop on site. Access may be limited due to the elevated location and historical stone structures, so comfortable walking shoes are helpful.
A grapevine in the castle courtyard has thrived for more than 500 years and still produces grapes today. This garden reflects how residents once grew their own food and wove agriculture into daily castle life.
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