Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle stands in a forested valley near Wierschem in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, on a rocky spur above the Elzbach stream. Construction began before 1157, and three branches of the Eltz family each built their own towers within shared defensive walls — an unusual co-ownership known as a Ganerbenburg. It is one of the very few Eifel castles never destroyed: during the 1688-89 war it survived because a senior Eltz family member held high rank in the French army.
The family has owned it for over 800 years and still lives in part of it. Open April to November, with a treasury of over 500 artifacts. Eltz appeared on Germany's 500-Deutsche Mark banknote throughout the third note series (1961-1995).
Visitor information
- Location
- Wierschem, Rhineland-Palatinate
- Country
- Germany
- Tier
- A (Magnificent, well worth a dedicated trip)
- Coordinates
- 50.2051, 7.3366
- Official site
- https://burg-eltz.de/
Frequently asked questions
- Where is Eltz Castle?
- Eltz Castle is in Wierschem, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany (approximately 50.2051, 7.3366).
- Can you visit Eltz Castle?
- Yes — Eltz Castle is open to visitors; see the official site at https://burg-eltz.de/ for hours and tickets.
- What tier is Eltz Castle on the Castle Atlas?
- Eltz Castle is rated A tier on the Castle Atlas — Magnificent, well worth a dedicated trip.
- What can you see at Eltz Castle?
- Eltz Castle stands in a forested valley near Wierschem in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, on a rocky spur above the Elzbach stream. Construction began before 1157, and three branches of the Eltz family each built their own towers within shared defensive walls — an unusual co-ownership known as a Ganerbenburg. It is one of the very few Eifel castles never destroyed: during the 1688-89 war it survived because a senior Eltz family member held high rank in the French army.