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Ruins · Bernkastel-Kues, Renânia-Palatinado
Burg Landshut
Castle ruin atop the hill above Bernkastel, former summer residence of the archbishops of Trier, destroyed by a fire in 1692. The tower and terrace are viewpoints over the Mosela bend.
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 Burg Landshut
Burg Landshut occupies a hill of about 235 metres above sea level, just above Bernkastel's centre. Excavations carried out during maintenance work found remains of a late Roman fortification, which places the site among the oldest fortified points in the valley.
The medieval castle was built at the end of the 13th century by the Archbishop of Trier Heinrich von Finstingen. It served as an administrative seat and the archbishops' summer residence, and the name Landshut appears in the early 16th century. A fire on 8 January 1692 destroyed the castle, which was never rebuilt.
The town has owned the ruin since 1920. The main tower, round and up to 17 metres high, can be climbed, and from the top you can see the bend of the Mosela, the roofs of Bernkastel and Kues and the vineyard-covered slopes. A path with information panels runs around the ruin.
The walk up starts from the old town and passes between vineyards, on a steep section. In summer a tourist bus covers the route from Bernkastel in about 20 minutes.
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 1.5 to 2 hours, including the walk up and the descent.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the sun at the side over the valley. In autumn the vine leaves turn yellow and red. Avoid the hottest hours of summer, as the ascent has little shade.
How to get there
From Bernkastel's Marktplatz, follow the signs to Burg Landshut along the trail that climbs between the vineyards, about 30 to 40 minutes. In the summer season there is a tourist bus from Bernkastel.
Tip
Bring water and wear sturdy footwear for the ascent. The restaurant by the ruin may be closed for parts of the year: check in advance if you plan to eat up there.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Burg Landshut
How long does it take to walk up to Burg Landshut?
About 30 to 40 minutes on foot from the centre of Bernkastel, via a steep path through the vineyards. In summer there is a tourist bus.
Can you go up the tower?
Yes. The main tower of the ruin can be climbed, and from the top you can see the whole bend of the Mosela.
Why is the castle in ruins?
A fire on 8 January 1692 destroyed the castle, which was never rebuilt. The town has cared for the ruin since 1920.