Sankt Goar

Looming formidably above Sankt Goar and the Rhine valley, the large and partially ruined fortress of Burg Rhinefels is definitely worth a visit on any trip to the Rhineland. The fortress's first components were built in 1245 by Count Diether von Katzenelnbogen. Other rulers of the region made their own contributions to the construction castle. It was eventually ruined by members of the French Revolutionary Army when they were invading the area. Despite its partially ruined state, the fortress retains a strong sense of dignity and strength. The castle is only one fifth of its size before its destruction by the French Army in 1797. One way to understand the former size of the fortress is to explore the underground tunnels built during the 30 Years War. These tunnels were built under the flat, undefended plain to the West of the castle by the garrison of the castle. The tunnels were filled with gunpowder, and in theory, as an approaching enemy army neared the castle by way of the flat plain, the gunpowder would be ignited and eventually explode, sending the enemy army falling to their death. However this secret weapon was never put to use so the tunnels formerly housing gunpowder can be visited today. It is a tight fit and flashlights are needed.

Romanesque crypt comes from the late 11th century. Wall paintings from the latter half of the 15th century. Late Gothic gallery.