Rheinfels Castle

Rheinfels Castle (Burg Rheinfels) is a large medieval fortress ruin rising above the town of Sankt Goar on the left bank of the Rhine. It was founded in the mid 13th century and became a major stronghold overseeing river traffic.

Visitors can explore ruined defensive walls, towers and vaulted cellars, and a small museum displays finds and regional history. The site provides panoramic views over the Rhine valley and the Lorelei stretch of the river.

The castle was constructed from the 13th century onward by the regional ruling family and expanded across the Middle Ages into a multi-tiered fortress. It suffered major destruction during the conflicts of the late 18th century and has remained partly ruined since then, with later conservation and visitor adaptation.

Rheinfels Castle sits on a steep hillside above Sankt Goar in Rhineland-Palatinate, overlooking the Rhine River in the Rhine Gorge.

• Founding date: Founded in 1245 by the Counts of Katzenelnbogen, the site became one of the largest fortresses on the left bank of the Rhine.
• Best viewpoint: Offers commanding views over the Rhine valley and the town of Sankt Goar, making the castle a popular viewpoint for the Rhine Gorge.

What to See #

• Keep and towers: A large bergfried and remaining tower sections date to the original medieval core; these are visible from the town below and form the upper defensive area.
• Cellars: Extensive vaulted wine cellars and storage areas run beneath the castle terraces and are accessible in the ruin complex as part of the visitor route.
• Museum: A small on-site museum presents artefacts, historical displays and information on the castle's role in regional history.