Alt Eberstein Castle Ruins, Ebersteinburg, Germany

Alt-Eberstein castle was originally built in 1100 as the primary residence of the Counts of Eberstein, but by the end of the 16th century had been abandoned and much of the castle was torn down to provide materials for other structures. Presently it is a German national monument and a State Palace of Baden-Wuerttemberg.

A spur castle situated on a once-strategic mountain peak, the fortress was constructed as the seat of the Counts of Eberstein perhaps as early as 1100. The oldest part of the castle remaining intact are the ramparts. The first historical mention of the castle occurs in 1197 as Castrum Eberstein. In the second half of the 13th century, the Ebersteins began construction on Castle Neu-Eberstein and the older seat declined in prominence and ultimately fell into disrepair; by 1573, it was uninhabited and thereafter became a quarry used by both the Eberstein descendants and locals. Starting in the 1800s, efforts have been made to preserve the site (which now consists solely of elements of the curtain wall and keep) and it presently one of the State Palaces and Gardens of Baden-Wuerttemberg, housing a restaurant and garden open to tourists.

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User Reviews

dnvpaul (4 years ago)
The castle is easy to reach by car and probably a nice stop on a Wanderweg. Climbing the tower is fun. The view, in all directions, is lovely and interesting. Panorama maps are affixed to the walls to show you what you are looking at in the distance. There isn’t much to see or do except go to the top of the tower and look at the view. There is a restaurant, but it was closed.

dvd prz (4 years ago)
Temporary closed. What is worth about the place is the location and trails around. Also there is a self-service fridge with drinks (not for free), which made it even better.

Krzys Robak (5 years ago)
Lovely ruins, with a beautiful view from the tower. The restaurant is open only during the weekend

Ya Boy Yike (6 years ago)
I can see my house from here

Tom Tessi (6 years ago)
Old castle with a wonderful scenic view on sunny days. Nice restaurant next door.

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Alt Eberstein Castle Ruins

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