Neuerburg

Neuerburg is a castle built above the Enzbach valley in the western Eifel hills and marked by thick walls and polygonal bastions. These defensive structures integrate with natural rock formations and form the core of a complex that today draws visitors through its inner courtyard and former knights' hall chapel.

The fortress was first documented in 1132 and then underwent major changes between 1513 and 1540 under Count Dietrich IV, who strengthened the walls and modernized the defenses. During the Thirty Years' War the castle resisted attacks from Swedish, French, and Polish forces as well as from armies based in Luxembourg.

The castle became a gathering place for young people after 1930 when a Catholic youth organization took it over and converted the former military stronghold into a community space. This transformation shaped how people have used the building ever since, turning ancient walls into a place for meeting and learning.

The grounds are open year-round and visitors can freely explore the inner courtyard and converted chapel without requiring special facilities or guided tours. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes since the castle plateau has uneven and steep paths.

A distinctive feature is its history as a meeting place for Catholic youth, making it a rare example of a fortress transformed from a battlefield to an educational space. This conversion shows how medieval walls took on new life and purposes in the 20th century.