Welcome to Gerhardstein Castle Ruins (so-called Löwenburg)
The once mighty Gerhardstein Castle, also known as Löwenburg, looks back on almost 1,000 years of history. Founded by the prestigious Eifel noble family von Blankenheim, it was temporarily under French rule, withstood lightning strikes and wars, only to be destroyed in the end.
Not only the view over Gerolstein, the Dolomite massif and the picturesque Kyll valley make the climb worthwhile, but also the impressive remains of the 11 metre high shield wall.
The ruins are open all year round and free to access.
No winter service on site.
Please inform yourself about current weather warnings before your visit.
Address
Burgruine Gerhardstein („Löwenburg“)
54568 Gerolstein
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The ruins are a historical site of the Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe Rheinland-Pfalz (General Directorate for Cultural Heritage Rhineland‑Palatinate), www.gdke.rlp.de.
Regrettably, as it is a historic site, there is no disabled access to the castle ruins. Thank you for your understanding.
The ruins of the once mighty Gerhardstein Castle, also known as the “Löwenburg“, rise high above the Kyll Valley and the town of Gerolstein in the Daun district.
The castle was first mentioned in 1330 and was given as a fief to various noble families – the Lords of Blankenheim, the Lords of Loes and the Counts of Manderscheid – until the beginning of the 17th century. It fell victim to the Palatinate War of Succession in 1691.
Today, destruction caused by war and natural disasters only convey an idea of the former dimensions of the complex. Attackers first had to overcome the shield wall of the outer bailey, which is still an impressive 35 metres long and 11 metres high. The outer bailey was separated from the main castle by a moat. Remains of the walls of several residential buildings and the ruins of a circular wall tower, which once housed the castle chapel, can still be seen.
Gerhardstein Castle is just a few metres off the hiking trails. A short detour to the historic walls rewards you with a beautiful panoramic view.
Touristik GmbH Gerolsteiner Land
Burgstraße 6
54576 Hillesheim
Phone +49 6591 133100
touristinfo(at)gerolsteiner-land.de
www.gerolsteiner-land.de