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Castle · Cochem, Renânia-Palatinado
Reichsburg Cochem
Castle on a hill about 100 meters above Cochem, of medieval origin, destroyed by the French in 1689 and rebuilt in a neo-Gothic style in the 19th century. Visits are by guided tour only.
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 Reichsburg Cochem
The Reichsburg Cochem dominates the town from a hill on the Mosela's bank. The castle originated around 1100 as a toll station on the river and is securely attested in a document from 1130. In 1151 King Conrad III took it, hence the name Reichsburg, castle of the Empire. It later passed to the Electorate of Trier, which held it until 1803.
In 1689, during the Palatinate Succession War, French troops blew up the castle. The ruin remained abandoned until 1868, when the Berlin merchant Louis Ravené bought it to create a summer residence. The reconstruction, in a neo-Gothic style, took place from 1868 to 1877, and much of the exterior seen today is a 19th-century interpretation rather than a copy of the medieval castle.
Since 1978 the castle has belonged to the town of Cochem. Entry to the halls and courtyards is by guided tour only, which goes through furnished rooms with period pieces, weapons and woodwork. Above, the terrace has views over the river, the town and the vineyard-covered slopes.
The castle also hosts events throughout the year, such as a medieval festival on the first weekend of August and a Christmas program during Advent. There is no parking at the top: you walk up from the old town or use the shuttle bus.
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 2 hours, including the climb and the guided tour.
Best time
Early, on the first guided tour of the day, before the coach groups arrive. The main season usually runs from March to November; in winter the castle opens with a reduced schedule, so check before you go.
How to get there
From Cochem's market square, the walk up takes about 15–20 minutes along steep streets and paths. Those who prefer can use the shuttle bus that departs from the town centre. There is no car parking at the castle.
Tip
Guided tours are usually in German, with material available in other languages: check at the castle how it operates that day. Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and, on the way back, descend the other side of the hill to see the castle from different angles.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Reichsburg Cochem
Can you visit the Reichsburg without a guide?
No. The halls and courtyards can only be visited on a guided tour, which departs at regular intervals throughout the day.
Is the Cochem castle medieval?
Its origin is medieval, around 1100, but the castle was blown up in 1689 and rebuilt in a neo-Gothic style between 1868 and 1877. Much of the exterior dates from that reconstruction.
How do you get up to the Reichsburg?
On foot, 15–20 minutes from the old town, or by shuttle bus. There is no parking at the castle.
Is the Reichsburg open in winter?
The main season usually runs from March to November. In winter there is reduced programming and Christmas events during Advent; confirm before you go.