Burg Rheinberg, Medieval castle ruin in Lorch, Germany
Burg Rheinberg is a castle ruin perched on a steep rocky outcrop north of the Wisper River, featuring a square keep and remnants of thick defensive walls. The complex spreads across different levels of the hillside, showing the typical layout of a medieval fortification.
The castle was built around 1165 by the Archbishop of Mainz and transferred to the Rhinegraves in 1170. It was destroyed during the Sponheimer Feud in 1279, reflecting its strategic importance in regional conflicts.
The chapel consecrated to the Holy Cross in 1471 reflects how important religious practice was for the noble families living here. You can still see traces of this sacred space within the ruins today.
A visit requires sturdy footwear and careful navigation because of the steep terrain and uneven paths. Some areas are marked with restriction signs and video surveillance, so it is best to stay on designated routes and respect the boundaries shown.
By 1374, seven noble families shared residence in this castle simultaneously, an unusual arrangement called Ganerbenburg in medieval German architecture. This shared living arrangement reveals the complexity of property ownership and social structures in that era.
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