Motte Zoppesmur, Medieval castle ruin in Leysiefen, Leichlingen, Germany
Motte Zoppesmur is a medieval fortification featuring a circular earthen mound roughly 50 meters across and rising about 8 meters high. A curved wall runs along the plateau edge, and a defensive rampart descends the slope toward the Wupper River below.
The site likely developed in the 11th century and was examined through archaeological digs in the 1930s that revealed pottery from that era. In 1280, ownership transferred to Count Adolf of Berg, marking a change in local authority.
The site shows how noble families displayed their power through fortifications and controlled river crossings in the region. Visitors can still see the outline of the old structure and grasp why this location mattered for ruling the area.
The ruins sit in an elevated position offering views over the Wupper valley and surrounding landscape. Access is possible but requires care due to the natural slope and lack of modern facilities at the site.
The name possibly comes from a family called Zoppes or Zoppe whose origins can be traced in local records. The combination of earthwork and stone structures created a defense strategy particularly suited to the riverside location.
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