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Schloss Burg: A Journey Through Bergish History

Explore Schloss Burg in Solingen: A majestic castle with panoramic views, medieval history, and captivating cultural events in the heart of Bergisches Land.

Schloss Burg, perched high above the Wupper River in Solingen, is a meticulously reconstructed castle offering a captivating glimpse into the region's rich medieval past. Once the ancestral seat of the Counts of Berg, the castle boasts impressive ramparts, a magnificent Knights' Hall, and intriguing exhibits within the Bergisches Museum. Visitors can explore the castle's various chambers, discover historical artifacts, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Bergisches Land. Whether arriving via a scenic chairlift ride from Unterburg or traversing the winding road, Schloss Burg promises an immersive experience, transporting visitors back to the age of knights and nobles. While renovations are ongoing until late 2025, the castle remains open, offering a unique opportunity to witness history in the making.

A brief summary to Schloßpl. 17

  • Schloßpl. 17, Solingen, Burg an der Wupper, 42659, DE

Local tips

  • Take the chairlift from Unterburg for a scenic and relaxing ascent to the castle, enjoying breathtaking views of the Wupper River valley.
  • Check the event calendar for medieval markets, concerts, and festivals that bring the castle to life with historical reenactments and entertainment.
  • Explore the Bergisches Museum within the castle to discover historical artifacts and learn about the region's rich cultural heritage.
  • Sample local culinary specialties like Bergische Waffeln at the cafes and restaurants surrounding the castle.
  • Be aware that renovations are ongoing until late 2025, but the castle remains open with a transitional museum and access to the courtyards and keep.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Solingen Hauptbahnhof (Hbf), take bus line 683 towards Burger Bahnhof. From Burger Bahnhof, several options exist to reach Schloss Burg. You can transfer to bus line 689 towards Burg Brücke, which stops near the base of the castle hill. Alternatively, from Burger Bahnhof, you can walk approximately 5 minutes to the Burg Brücke bus stop and take bus 689. From Burg Brücke, it's a 20-minute walk uphill to the castle through winding forest paths. VRR (Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Ruhr) tickets are valid for these buses; a single ticket (Preisstufe A) costs approximately €3.20. Consider purchasing a day ticket if you plan to use public transport extensively. Alternatively, from Burger Bahnhof, walk to the Seilbahn Burg (cable car) in Unterburg (approx. 15 minutes) and take the cable car up to the castle (€3 one way, €4.50 round trip).

  • Driving

    From Solingen city center, follow the signs towards Burg an der Wupper. Use the address Wermelskirchener Str. 2, 42659 Solingen in your navigation system to reach the main parking lot directly at the castle. Parking fees apply at this lot. As an alternative, free parking is available at Parkplatz hinter der Feuerwehr (In der Planke 3, 42659 Solingen), a 5-minute walk from the castle. Other free parking options include Wanderparkplatz Oberburg (Talsperrenstraße, 42659 Solingen), a 10-minute walk, and Parkplatz Sportplatz (Talsperrenstraße, 42659 Solingen), a 15-20 minute walk. Be aware that parking near the castle can be limited during peak season and events.

  • Cable Car

    From Unterburg, the Seilbahn Burg (cable car) provides a direct and scenic route to Schloss Burg. The cable car station is located a short walk from the Burg Brücke bus stop. A one-way ticket costs €3, and a round-trip ticket is €4.50. The ride takes approximately 5 minutes, offering panoramic views of the Wupper River and surrounding landscape. This is a particularly convenient option for those with mobility issues or those seeking a more leisurely ascent to the castle.

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Discover more about Schloßpl. 17

Schloss Burg, also known as Burg Castle, stands proudly in Solingen's Burg an der Wupper district, a testament to the region's captivating history and architectural prowess. As the largest reconstructed castle in North Rhine-Westphalia, it draws visitors into a world of medieval grandeur and offers panoramic views of the picturesque Bergisches Land. Its story is interwoven with the rise of the Duchy of Berg, serving as the ancestral seat of the Counts of Berg from the early 12th century. The castle's origins trace back to Count Adolf III of Berg, who, around 1133, strategically erected it atop a mountain overlooking the Wupper River. This new stronghold replaced the older Castle Berge in Odenthal near Altenberg. Initially named Castle Neuenberge, meaning "Newmountain," it wasn't until the 15th century, following extensive renovations into a hunting lodge, that it adopted its current name, Schloss Burg. Throughout the 13th and 14th centuries, Schloss Burg remained a vital center of power for the Counts of Berg. Count Adolf VIII's triumph at the Battle of Worringen in 1288 solidified his influence, leading to the imprisonment of the opposing Archbishop of Cologne within the castle walls. This victory paved the way for Adolf VIII to elevate Düsseldorf to city status and control Rhine River traffic. In 1380, Düsseldorf became the capital of the Duchy of Berg, diminishing Schloss Burg's strategic importance. However, it continued to serve as a hunting retreat and venue for ceremonial events, earning the title "Schloss," signifying a representative castle. A significant event occurred in 1496 when Maria of Jülich-Berg was betrothed to John of Cleves-Mark at a young age, culminating in their wedding at Burg 14 years later. This union led to the unification of the duchies of Jülich-Cleves-Berg. The ravages of the Thirty Years' War in 1632 saw Swedish soldiers lay siege to the castle, followed by the destruction of its fortifications by Imperial troops in 1648. Although partially reconstructed in 1700 for administrative purposes, the castle fell into disrepair and was sold for scrap in 1849, becoming a ruin. A resurgence of interest in preserving this historical landmark emerged in 1882 when architect Gerhard August Fischer proposed a reconstruction based on 16th-century depictions. The Castle Reconstruction Committee spearheaded the restoration from 1890 to 1914, with artists from the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf contributing their skills. Despite a devastating fire in 1920, reconstruction efforts continued from 1922 to 1925. Today, Schloss Burg stands as a captivating destination, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life. The Bergisches Museum within the castle showcases historical weapons, murals, and silver goblets, while augmented reality apps provide immersive 360-degree views of the castle's core complex. Guided tours and events, such as open-air concerts and medieval markets, further enrich the visitor experience. Visitors can reach Schloss Burg via a scenic chairlift from Unterburg, a charming village at the foot of the mountain, or by traversing the winding road. The castle's surroundings offer hiking trails through lush forests and opportunities to sample local culinary specialties like Burger Brezel. Despite ongoing renovations until the end of 2025, Schloss Burg remains open, inviting visitors to witness history in progress and explore its captivating chambers and courtyards. The keep has been reopened with a new exhibition, offering panoramic views of the countryside from its five levels. Schloss Burg is more than just a reconstructed castle; it is a living testament to the region's history, culture, and resilience. Its imposing ramparts, magnificent Knights' Hall, and captivating exhibits transport visitors back to a bygone era, while its ongoing restoration ensures that this historical treasure will continue to inspire and educate for generations to come. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, Schloss Burg promises an unforgettable journey through time.

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