German Castles That Have Stood the Test of Time

Germany is famous for its fairytale castles, both because of their beauty and sheer number (Germany has more castles than any other country). Many of the country’s most impressive fortresses are so old it’s amazing they are still standing. Built during the Middle Ages and, in some cases, even earlier, these castles have stood through the rise and fall of kingdoms, large-scale battles, and centuries of European history. Here are 8 of Germany’s oldest castles.

Overlooking Lake Constance, Meersburg Castle is considered one of Germany’s oldest still-existing castles. According to legend, the fortress was built by the Merovingian king Dagobert I in the 7th century. Though historians debate some of the details of its early history, it is without-a-doubt centuries old. There is a tradition connecting its oldest portion, the Dagobert Tower, to Merovingian King Dagobert I, and it's described as Germany's oldest inhabited castle. What is certain is that the castle has very old medieval roots and experts are amazed by how well-preserved the structure is today. With its stone towers, ancient rooms, and beautiful lake views, Meersburg is definitely worth visiting.

Set high above the Moselle River, Reichsburg Cochem is one of Germany’s most popular castles. The original castle dates back roughly a thousand years. The medieval castle was destroyed by French troops in 1689 and stayed ruined until Louis Ravené rebuilt it beginning in 1868. He made sure to include medieval elements. This castle has seen a lot and undergone centuries of transformation. Today, its towers, courtyards, and gorgeous location make it one of the most photographed castles in Germany.

This German castle has played an important role in history. Ever since Wartburg Castle was founded in the 11th century, it has been a place of culture, politics, and religion. It is notably associated with Martin Luther, who translated the New Testament into German while hiding in the castle back in the 16th century. Not only is it in a stunning location above the town of Eisenach, but Wartburg is also one of Germany’s most historically significant castles. It has certainly earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This castle has serious fairytale vibes. Hidden in a forest above the Moselle River, Eltz Castle looks like it was built for a fantasy movie. Construction began in the 12th century. Uniquely, the castle has stayed in the same family for more than 800 years. Unlike many medieval castles that crumbled due to war, Eltz is mostly intact. Remarkably, its towers, timber framing, and historic interiors stand strong.

Sitting on top of Mount Hohenzollern, this castle was once the home of the powerful Hohenzollern dynasty. Archaeological evidence suggests the first castle was built in the first half of the 11th century, but it was later destroyed. In fact, this one went through multiple early versions, all of which were destroyed. Today's castle is the third structure on the site and dates mostly from the 19th century. It was built beginning in 1850 and inaugurated in 1867. Its dramatic hilltop location and imposing towers make it look like a palace straight out of a storybook. Despite being rebuilt, Hohenzollern Castle still has strong ties to German royal history.

This stunning castle is located above the Rhine River. Marksburg Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the entire country. Built in the early 12th century, it was remarkably never destroyed and still has its original defensive features. Unlike castles that acted as elegant palaces, Marksburg was a true fortress designed for protection. Tourists can explore its armory and well-built walls, stepping back in time to life in a medieval stronghold.

Altena Castle is located in North Rhine-Westphalia. It was built by the Counts of Altena during the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, it has served many different purposes. At various times, it acted as a military fortress, an administrative building, and a private residence. The castle is also famous for being the place of one of the world’s first permanent youth hostels in 1912.

Although younger than some castles on this list, Heidelberg Castle is one of Germany’s most famous. Construction began in the 13th century, and the castle became the home of wealthy rulers of the Palatinate region. Over the years, it incurred damage from wars and lightning strikes and was never fully rebuilt. The result is an impressive combination of Gothic ruins and Renaissance architecture. It is extremely romantic, thanks to its beautiful views over the city of Heidelberg and its lovely architecture.