Starkenburg, Medieval castle ruin near Mosel River, Germany
Starkenburg is a castle ruin situated on a rocky plateau above the Mosel River in Germany. The remains include defensive walls, several towers, and residential structures spread across the narrow ridge.
The castle was established around 1190 when the Counts of Sponheim settled there as vassals of the Archbishop of Trier. The site later experienced transformations that reflected the growing power and importance of the noble family.
The place served as a seat of power for a noble family and shows traces of how people lived in medieval times. Its position between river and stream shaped daily life and how inhabitants connected with the surrounding land.
Access to the ruins is through paths that lead to different areas and viewpoints across the site. The ARGO application allows visitors to view digital reconstructions of the original castle structure as they explore the remains.
In 1328 the countess in charge of the castle managed to capture the Bishop of Trier and use him as a bargaining tool during negotiations. This bold action revealed the independent power of a woman during a period typically dominated by men.
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