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Castle · Bacharach, Renânia-Palatinado
Marksburg
The only hill castle in the Middle Rhine that was never destroyed, from the 13th century, above Braubach. It can only be visited with a guide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Marksburg
Marksburg sits atop a slate cone above the town of Braubach, 186 meters above sea level. It has existed since the early 13th century and is the only medieval hill castle in the Middle Rhine that was never destroyed, despite artillery damage in March 1945.
The name comes from the chapel of São Marcos, mentioned in 1437. Before that the castle was called Burg Braubach. Over the centuries it passed through the counts of Katzenelnbogen and the landgraves of Hesse, who strengthened it against artillery.
The visit, only with a guide, goes through the gates in sequence, the courtyard, the medieval kitchen, the knights' hall, the chapel and a collection of armour. The medieval herb garden completes the route. Marksburg is the headquarters of the Deutsche Burgenvereinigung, the German castle preservation association.
The castle is open year-round, with shorter hours in winter, and in the summer season there are guided tours in English at fixed times throughout the day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 50 minutes for the guided tour, plus the walk up.
Best time
In the morning, before the cruise groups. The summer season usually runs from late March to early November, with more tour times. In winter there are hourly tours with reduced hours.
How to get there
It is in Braubach, on the right bank, about 30 km downstream from Bacharach. By train, change in Koblenz and continue to Braubach; from the station the walk up takes about 20–30 minutes. By car there is parking near the castle.
Tip
Entry is only with a guided tour; tickets are sold at the castle shop, and only groups need to reserve. Ask for the time of the next tour in English.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Marksburg
Why is Marksburg special?
It is the only medieval hill castle in the Middle Rhine that was never destroyed, and therefore preserves its original structure.
Can you visit without a guide?
No. Visits are always guided and last about 50 minutes.
Are there tours in English?
Yes. In the summer season there are guided tours in English at fixed times; in winter, generally on weekends. Check before you go.
Is a reservation necessary?
Only groups need to reserve. Individual visitors buy tickets at the castle shop.