Wachtenburg Castle, dating back to the 12th century, is the town's landmark which can be seen from afar and is also known as the 'balcony of the Palatinate' thanks to its beautiful view. Along with the Burgschänke, it is one of the most popular getaway destinations in the region.
Wachtenburg Castle is home to the ruins of a spur castle on the spur of a hill rising 232 m above sea level. The castle on what is known as Schloßberg directly above Wachenheim an der Weinstraße was probably built in the 12th century under Konrad von Hohenstaufen, a half-brother of the famous Emperor Barbarossa. The castle was destroyed by French troops during the War of the Palatinate Succession in 1689.
Wachtenburg Castle is located on the premium hiking trail Pfälzer Weinsteig. From the castle's lookout tower, there is a phenomenal view of the Rhine Valley that reaches as far as the Black Forest, which is why Wachtenburg Castle is also known as the 'balcony of the Palatinate'. The history of the castle is displayed in the small castle museum.
The attached Burgschänke offers typical Palatinate specialities.
References:The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.
Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.