Burg Pfalzel, Medieval castle in Pfalzel, Germany
Burg Pfalzel is a fortified castle perched on a hilltop overlooking the Moselle valley, with a distinctive four-story gate tower featuring pointed arch openings still standing. The site also displays remains of residential quarters, defensive walls, and bastions that together form the outline of the medieval stronghold.
Archbishop Albero of Trier commissioned the castle in the 12th century as his residential stronghold. It rose on the site of an earlier Roman structure and later faced military challenges that tested its defensive design.
The castle served as a residence for powerful church leaders who shaped the region for centuries through their authority. Today the place reminds visitors of the era when religious rulers held sway over the territory and its people.
The site sits above the village of Pfalzel and is accessible on foot from the town below. Sturdy footwear is advisable since the climb is steep and the grounds have uneven terrain to navigate.
The fortress endured a 39-day siege in 1504 and proved the strength of its defensive design against a determined assault. This resilience made it a noted example of effective castle engineering for its time.
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