| Location | Koblenz, Wierschem, Germany (Google Maps) |
| Open for Visitors | Yes |
| Owned by | Johann Jakob Graf zu Eltz |
| Official Website | Eltz Castle |
| Rooms Available | Yes (Filming, Weddings) |
Eltz castle, called Burg Eltz in German, is an authentic medieval castle and one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. It has been owned by the same family for 33 generations. Its unique setting on an oval rock in the Elzbach valley, surrounded by woodlands and a little stream on three sides, provides visitors with a fairytale and magical appearance.
Eltz Castle History
The castle was initially built to secure the trade routes between Mosel, Maifeld, and Eifel. There are also remains of Celtic and Roman fortifications still present on the spot, which highlights the significance of the land. The castle is also called Ganerbenburg, which means a castle that belongs to a community of related heirs. It is therefore divided into several sections belonging to different families.
These castles were built in the Middle Ages by local lords who, unable to afford the construction of a personal castle, joined other feudal families to live in a single manor. The oldest part of the castle is a Romanesque keep called ‘Platteltz,’ dating back to the 13th century, while the most recent one is from the mid-16th century.
The lords and counts of Eltz have always taken the responsibility of preserving the cultural heritage of the castle for the family and the public. The castle was opened to the public in 1820. Since then, many visitors, including many well-known personalities, have visited this famous icon of Romanticism.
Since the 12th century, the oldest son was responsible for the castle. Since 2018, the castle has been owned and managed by Count Johann-Jakob Zu Eltz, the 34th generation of the Eltz Castle family.
Eltz Castle Architecture
The castle is an impressive example of Medieval German architecture that has beautifully sustained the test of time. It has eight beautiful towers soaring up to 35 meters high as if appearing from a fairytale. The castle’s oriels, roofs, timber frame structures, and turrets make it the epitome of a medieval castle.
The castle has an unrivalled location, set amid a forest, deep down in a valley, far from the hustle and bustle of the cities. It is entirely surrounded by a natural paradise. The picturesque setting of the castle allows visitors to truly experience a medieval dream.
Inside Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle interior houses artworks and crafts of European, national, or regional significance as well as weapons and everyday items from 8 centuries. Inside Eltz Castle, 80 of the 120 rooms have been turned into a museum. The castle also has a treasury that comprises one of the most significant private collections of more than 500 exhibits spanning nine centuries.
You can visit the numerous attractions in the armoury and treasury anytime during the opening hours. The entrance ticket includes your visit to the armoury and treasury. Foreign visitors are provided with a free brochure with an English translation of the labels. The opening times of the castle are 9:30 am – 5:30 pm from Monday to Sunday.
How to Reach
There are many routes that you can take to reach the castle. If you are coming from Koblenz to Eltz Castle along the Mosel valley, you can use the B416 until you reach Hatzenport. You can turn right onto the L113 to Münstermaifeld and then turn left to Wierschem before you reach the town centre.
From Cochem to Eltz Castle, you can use the B49 and B416 to Moselkern, turn left towards Münstermaifeld and then to Wierschem. The distance from Frankfurt to Eltz Castle is only 92 miles if you travel by car, and it would only take 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach the castle.
Nearby Places
Many places near Eltz Castle would make your trip exciting. Pyrmont Castle is one of the attractions near the castle, and if you go for this hike, you will get the opportunity to experience all of the beauty of the Eltz Valley. You can also visit Cochem Castle, just 40 km away.
Another place the nature lovers appreciate is the Stromschnellen der Elz, an incredible track along the Elzbach valley and the footpath. Winzerhütte is a vineyard near the castle that you can also explore while on a hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Eltz Castle?
Eltz Castle is located in the beautiful hills above the Moselle River between Koblenz and Trier cities in Germany.
How to get to Eltz Castle?
Eltz Castle is 65.2 miles from Trier City, and if you go by car, it takes 1 hour and 17 minutes via A48 and A1. If you want to take the bus to the castle, you can take the Burgenbus 330, available from May to November on weekends and public holidays.
Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us!
You can email us your pictures of the castle at castrumtocastle@gmail.com. Please use the name of the castle in the subject line.
Also, don’t forget to mention your name and social media profile link if you want the credits!
You Might Also Be Interested In
Nitesh Kucchal
Nitesh Kuchhal, an IIM Calcutta graduate, is more than an educator—he's a mentor. With a passion for leadership and entrepreneurship, and travel. He has explored over 20 countries. Beyond teaching, he dives into psychology and discusses social issues. Though he is not a history expert, he enjoys learning about it through books, adding a historical touch to his many interests.
