Marksburg

Marksburg is a medieval castle located above the town of Braubach in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. It is one of the principal sites of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike many castles in the region, Marksburg was never destroyed, and it remains one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe.

The castle's origins date back to the 12th century, when it was built to protect the town of Braubach and to collect customs duties. It was originally known as Burg Braubach. Over the centuries, it was expanded and fortified by various owners, including the Counts of Katzenelnbogen and the Landgraves of Hesse.

In 1815, the castle was acquired by the Prussian state and served as a barracks and a prison. In 1899, it was purchased by the German Castles Association (Deutsche Burgenvereinigung), which has restored and maintained it since then.

Today, Marksburg is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life. The castle features a variety of rooms and structures, including a chapel, a kitchen, a great hall, a armory, and a battery of cannons. It offers views of the Rhine valley. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and learn about its history and architecture. Marksburg is considered a significant example of a medieval hill castle and an important cultural monument.