Castles around Anschau offer a journey through medieval history in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany. The area is characterized by its Eifel hills and river valleys, providing scenic backdrops for historical sites. Monreal, a notable village in the Elzbachtal, features historic half-timbered houses and is overlooked by two prominent castle ruins. This region provides a blend of historical exploration and natural landscapes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Löwenburg ruins in Monreal were built around 1229 as a hilltop castle on a rocky outcrop by Count Hermann III of Virneburg on land owned by his brother Philipp, who then transferred his rights to it to his brother Hermann. The Philippsburg ruins were built shortly afterwards by Count Philipp.
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The Virneburg castle ruins are located on a hill at a height of 430 meters in the middle of the village of Virneburg, which is surrounded by 4 mountains, including the Schafberg, over which the hike leads through the juniper heath.
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The Lion Castle The Löwenburg above the half-timbered village of Monreal is a so-called spur castle and was first mentioned in a document in 1229. Count Hermann III von Virneburg is considered to be the builder of the Löwenburg. According to tradition, he is said to have built the complex on the property of his brother Philipp following a division agreement. However, the resulting disputes between the brothers were later resolved and Philip assigned his rights to the region to his brother. Today, large parts of the Löwenburg are still preserved, which give a good impression of how stately the castle once looked. First and foremost, the remains of the 25 meter high keep with its three meter thick walls are visible from afar. The high entrance to the imposing keep faces towards the valley and is therefore strategically located on the side facing away from the enemy. The tower is also freely accessible as a viewing tower.
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The Philippsburg The Philippsburg in Monreal was also built in the 13th century. The Philippsburg was given the nickname "Rech" (deer) in the local dialect due to its smaller size compared to the Löwenburg. There are two different theories about its origins: On the one hand, the Philippsburg was built as an outbuilding or outer structure of the Löwenburg, or on the other hand, it was built as Philip's "response" to the unauthorized construction of the Löwenburg by his brother. Some substantial wall remains of the Philippsburg have also been preserved - including the northwest tower and the restored south wall - which give a good impression of the original structure.
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Very beautiful bridge over the Elzbach in Monreal. The bridge is the middle of three historic stone bridges in the town. On the bridge is the impressive sight from the 15th century, the Lion Monument. The four lions carved in basalt are among the most important monuments of their kind in the Rhineland due to their uniqueness. On the other side of the bridge is the statue of John of Nepomuk, who also gave the bridge its name "John's Bridge". Beautiful!
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The narrow streets of Monreal, its quaint Holy Trinity Church, the massive Nepomuk Bridge over the clear Elzbach and the ruins of Löwenburg and Philippsburg castles high above the town are a beautiful destination in the eastern Eifel. The red and white half-timbered houses nestle closely together, and the four-gabled house from the 15th century in particular transports walkers into a fairytale past. https://www.eifel.info/a-monreal
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When you think of Nürburg, you only think of fast cars and tight corners? Then you're not familiar with the castle ruins of the same name. Nürburg was founded before 1166, probably by the Counts of Are. Characteristic slate-covered conical roofs mark the silhouette of the castle, visible from afar. Not only the view from the mighty keep is worth a visit, but also the impressive remains of the former castle complex, which was expanded in several so-called "growth rings." You can find more detailed information about Nürburg here: https://kulturerbe-eifel-mosel.de/nuerburg
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The Nürburg is the highest castle in Rhineland-Palatinate (676.5 m above sea level). It was built on a basalt, weathered volcanic vent. The basalt rock gave the mountain and the castle their name: Mons Nore, the black mountain. He also supplied the building materials for the castle. When the weather is clear, the keep (39 m high) offers a fantastic panoramic view of the entire Eifel, but also of the heart of the “Green Hell”, the Nordschleife, which winds its way through the woods around the castle.
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For breathtaking panoramic views, the Löwenburg Ruins in Monreal are highly recommended. From its impressive keep, you get a fantastic perspective of the historic village of Monreal and the surrounding Eifel landscape. The Philippsburg Castle Ruins also offer a secluded spot with a bench to enjoy views of the opposite castle and Monreal's old town. Additionally, the View of Löwenburg and Philippsburg Castles in Monreal provides a dedicated mountain path for scenic vistas of both ruins.
Yes, the castles in Monreal are suitable for families. The Monreal Historic Old Town itself is a charming place to explore with its half-timbered houses and romantic atmosphere. Both the Löwenburg Ruins and Philippsburg Castle Ruins are accessible via paths, offering an exciting historical adventure for all ages. The area provides a blend of historical exploration and natural landscapes that can be enjoyed by families.
The castles around Anschau, particularly those in Monreal, offer a deep dive into medieval history. The Monreal Historic Old Town itself tells tales of centuries past with its winding alleys and preserved architecture. The Löwenburg Ruins and Philippsburg Castle Ruins showcase the rivalry and architectural styles of 13th-century counts, with their keeps and remaining structures providing tangible links to the region's noble past. The Virneburg Castle Ruins also stand as a testament to a former hilltop castle, offering a romantic glimpse into a bygone era.
Absolutely! The region is excellent for combining hiking with castle exploration. The dream path “Monreal Ritterschlag” starts right in the center of Monreal Historic Old Town and leads over the two castle ruins. You can find more hiking options, including routes like the 'Monreal Historic Old Town – Upper Castle Bridge Monreal loop', on the Hiking around Anschau guide.
The castles around Anschau are nestled within the scenic Eifel hills and river valleys of Rhineland-Palatinate. In Monreal, the small Elzbach river flows through the town center, adding a romantic atmosphere, with the castles perched above. The Virneburg Castle Ruins are uniquely situated on a slate hill, surrounded by the Nitzbach stream, offering picturesque natural surroundings.
Beyond exploring the castles, the area around Anschau offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those that incorporate castle visits, by checking the Hiking around Anschau guide. For runners, there are dedicated routes listed in the Running Trails around Anschau guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can also discover trails in the region via the MTB Trails around Anschau guide.
Yes, the Löwenburg Ruins in Monreal are noted as dog-friendly, making it a great option for exploring with your canine companion. The outdoor nature of castle ruins and surrounding hiking paths generally makes them suitable for dog walks, but always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
Monreal Historic Old Town is often described as a 'picture-perfect' and 'magical' village. Its charm comes from the winding alleys, old, historic half-timbered houses, and the small Elzbach river flowing through the center. The village is overlooked by the impressive Löwenburg and Philippsburg castle ruins, creating a unique blend of history and scenic beauty. It's an exciting trip that offers a romantic atmosphere and a journey through the region's past.
The most popular castle ruins in the Anschau area are undoubtedly the Löwenburg Ruins and Philippsburg Castle Ruins, both located above the historic village of Monreal. These two ruins are frequently visited and admired for their historical significance and the stunning views they offer of the surrounding landscape and the village below.
The Virneburg Castle Ruins are an imposing hilltop castle situated on a slate hill at around 430 meters, with the Nitzbach stream flowing around it. While access to the round tower may be blocked due to structural testing, the ruins still offer plenty to explore. It's recommended to park at the small community center in the village and follow the signposts for a gentle walk up to the castle.
Yes, the 'Monreal Ritterschlag' dream path is a notable circular walk that starts in Monreal Historic Old Town and takes you around the village, passing by both the Löwenburg and Philippsburg castle ruins. This route offers a comprehensive experience of the area's history and natural beauty. You can find more details and other circular hiking routes in the Hiking around Anschau guide.


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