The Medieval Marksburg Castle

Marksburg Castle is one of the principal sites of the UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge and holds the distinction of being the only hill castle on the Rhine that has never been destroyed. The castle was built to protect the town of Braubach and was used mainly for protection rather than as a residence for royal families.

Marksburg Castle Stands The Test Of Time

Marksburg Castle is one of Germany’s prominent historical sites and stands as a rare example of history virtually undisturbed by the passage of time. Lived in for over 700 years, this castle has survived through the ravages of time to be one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Germany. The fortress has undergone several additions and developments over the centuries, growing into its present day shape. The only serious damage the Marksburg Castle ever suffered in hostilities occurred near the close of WWII when it was shelled from the west bank of the Rhine River.

One of the most important Rhine castles, the Marksburg Castle stands atop a hill rising above the town of Braubach on the right bank of Rhine River, upstream from its junction with the Mosel River. The unusually slender keep of the castle towers above the surrounding courts and ramparts.

Dating back to the construction of the keep in the 12th century, the fortress has been ever-changing and growing into its present shape through succeeding centuries. In the Middle Ages, the strengthening of the castle’s defenses became indispensable and urgent by improvements made to firearms. Certain significant changes were made during this period such as the huge outworks as well as the conversion of a gateway in the outer wall to a strong bastion. It was mainly due to these additional defense works that the castle could be protected from serious attacks many times. During peaceful times, Marksburg Castle was used mainly as a state prison.

You would be enthralled to visit this most original castle and the entire valley of the Loreley. This wonderful castle, home of the German Castles Association which is set up to preserve such ancient monuments, presents a host of captivating artifacts coming alive from the middle ages.

Visit Marksburg Castle on our select Rhine River Cruises!

Strasbourg

Strasbourg – A Starting Point for Short River Cruises

After the excitement of the holidays have settled down, start planning your get away with  our marvelous Rhine River cruise!  One of Europe’s major rivers, the Rhine flows through Switzerland, Germany, France and Holland. The area around the river – Rhineland – has a natural beauty that is simply stunning.  Picturesque mountain ranges, enchanting forests, mysterious castles and traditional vineyards provide a wonderful backdrop to a river cruise.

Strasbourg is one of the various beautiful destinations on Rhine River. The city is a starting point for various short river cruises such as Strasbourg to Koblenz etc. The port of Strasbourg is the second largest on the Rhine River.

Situated in the north-east of France, Strasbourg is the ultimate European city. It is a great metropolis and very cosmopolitan. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and absorbs the flavor of both the countries.  A unique thing about the city is that residents have mixed feelings of being French or German and they often agree that they are not totally either French or German, but a mix of both. As you visit this city, you too will be amused to see that the signs are in both languages and find it hard to decide which country you are visiting- France or Germany!

The intellectual and cultural capital of Alsace, and the official seat of the European Parliament, Strasbourg is famous throughout the world for its sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its renowned astronomical clock and nearby one of the finest collections of museums anywhere in France. The medieval cityscape of Rhineland with black and white timber-framed buildings is truly captivating.

Strasbourg also has the distinction of being famous for its beautiful historical Centre – the Grande Île – which was the first city center to be classified entirely as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  And not only this, the place is the best area in France when it comes to delicious cuisine as the dishes here have a boldness that originates from its German roots. You’ll find there is always attention to quality and detail that is the essence of the French food. Visitors will also have a wonderful time shopping here.  There is a wide range of markets and great shopping venues such as the new shopping Centre Rivetoile at Place d’.Etoile that was opened at the end of 2008.

Being so unique, beautiful and amazing, Strasbourg is a must visit destination. Your trip to Strasbourg will be an experience for a lifetime!