Rheinstein Castle

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Rheinstein Castle was erected in 1323 under Archbishop Peter vos Aspelt. The castle was known in the middle ages as Fautsberg and was built because there were disputes between the Archbishopric of Mainz and the Palantianate regarding the Reichensteina and Sooneck castles. It is one of approximately 10 castles built along the Rhine to protect the Mainz territory and was never destroyed by attack as many of the other German castles had been. During the 17th century it gradually fell into disrepair. In 1823 it was purchased, renovated and restored by Prince Friedrich of Prussia to be used as a summer home by him and his wife Wilhelmine Luise, after Fridrich’s death in 1863 the castle once again fell into disrepair. In 1975 the Duchess of Mecklenburg of the House of Prussia, sold the castle to a popular opera singer Hermann Hecher who again restored the castle to the state its House of Prussia glory using as much furniture and personal items of Friedrich and Wilhelmine’s family as possible. It is run today by his nephew’s family. The Rhine River tour is well worth the time and cost. The three hour tour we were on included lunch and beautiful views of the castles of the Rhine.

The walk up to Rheinstein castle was very steep and not for those who have mobility problems. There are several places to stop and catch your breath along the path. Wear comfortable shoes, this is no time to be fashionable unless you enjoy aching feet. You can purchase a tour book for 3.50 € and I believe an audio tour was also available but I am not sure of the price. The castle tour is self directed and starts in the Garden. Be sure to notice well which is the centerpiece of the garden: The neo-gothich basalt well built in 1834 designed by Ernst Friedrich Zwirner the architect of the Cologne Cathedral

Once you explore the garden walk up the path to the Main Portal - The main portal. The impressive tympanum bears an coat of arms with the Prussian eagle and above it a helm with a crown. On the lintel is the inscription “Gott mit uns” (God with us).

Castle chapel. Prince Friedrich and Wilhelmine are buried in the crypt behind the chapel which he added to the original castle design. It is an outstanding example of neo-gothic workmanship

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