Germany is a land known for its magnificent castles and almost every city has at least one of its own. Overlooking the river, Schloss Stolzenfels is situated on the outskirts of the ancient city of Koblenz. This medieval castle was built by Arnold von Isenburg, the Archbishop of Trier and used as a toll station. Later it was the office of the Electorate of Trier. During the Nine Years War, it was damaged by the French and was in ruin for 150 years. It was gifted to Frederick William IV of Prussia in 1815. He delegated Karl Friedrich Schinkel to rebuild the building. The neoclassic architect turned it into a beautiful neo-Gothic building. It was the Prussian King's favorite summertime residence. Take a stroll through the gardens, halls and royal rooms of this romantic castle to get a glimpse into the past.
A museum solely dedicated to mechanical instruments, the Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinett is delightfully refreshing and unique. The museum offers guided tours for large groups where the guides demonstrate the intricacies of these antique instruments whilst also playing them.
Rüdesheim-am-Rhein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to many interesting places. The Drosselgasse in the city's old town is a tourist magnet and is a popular street for locals as well. This 15th-century cobbled street is dotted with quaint restaurants, cafes, wine bars, garden taverns, historical structures and little souvenir shops. Live music is the norm here, any time of the day or night. Bustling with activity that defines the local culture of the town, Drosselgasse is one of the most fascinating tourist attractions of Rüdesheim am Rhein.
Housed in the region above the Braubach town within the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany is the fortress of Marksburg, an iconic castle and a famous sight. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fortress dates back to the 12th Century. However, it was reconstructed and remodeled many times throughout the course of its existence. Guided tours are available and lend valuable insight into the history and culture of the castles' inhabitants as well as the surrounding regions.
The Rheingau region in Germany has never really seen a dearth of wineries or sprawling vineyards. Of these, the Schloss Johannisberg is one of the oldest ones which manages to maintain a certain charm in its rustic atmosphere. Engaged in the process of making wines for over nine centuries, Schloss Johannisberg promises a wonderful winery setting, replete with tastings and tours of their wine cellar.
This former city palace from the 16th Century in Andernach now houses a beautiful museum. The unique building with its colorful facade is an architectural marvel in itself. Stadtmuseum Andernach offers informative insights into the town's fascinating history with various permanent and special exhibits. It also hosts special events for visitors to experience the town's culture. Learn about Andernach's development as a thriving port in the Middle Ages with various artifacts like pots, coins, household items, documents, and other antiquities. When in Andernach, this museum is an interesting place for history buffs to delve deeper into the past of one of the oldest cities in Germany.
The WeinMuseum Schlagkamp is believed to be one of the biggest museums of its kind. The museum has over 10,000 interesting exhibits spanning across three levels. In the wine cellar, you will learn about the wine-making procedures and get to see a variety of barrels. The old Kelterhaus has a variety of interesting items related to wines, of course. In the old ballroom, you can enjoy a glass of premium wine. Children are welcomed to the museum as well and are served grape juice instead of the wines.
A collection of valuable old dolls, dating back decades, is exhibited in the old town hall.
The three-wing palace complex reflecting late Renaissance architecture was essentially built during the early 17th century under the building directors Johann Ludwig and somewhat later Joachim Rumpf. The two palace chapels testify to the different faiths of the Nassau-Hadamar Counts. While Count Johann Ludwig von Nassau-Hadamar had converted to the Catholic faith, the countess remained Calvinist. Since the castle is now the seat of authority, visits are only possible as part of events.
The city castle of the Trier archbishops, built from 1276, was later expanded several times.
Found close to the center of Treis-Karden, Stiftskirche St. Castor is regarded as one of the town’s main churches. Some of the notable features inside this church include St. John's altar, St. Stephen Altar and the altarpiece that has depictions from the Bible.
The Pallottine Church, an impressive example of expressionist architecture, was constructed by Hubert Pinard between 1925 and 1927. This type of a three-aisled basilica and the double tower facade adheres to the traditional architectural designs of Christian church buildings, but the shape of the parabolic arch that dominates the central nave creates a completely new impression of a cavernous space.