Thurant Castle: A Moselle Valley Jewel

Thurant Castle, or Burg Thurant as it's known in German, stands proudly on a slate hill overlooking the village of Alken on the Moselle River. Its commanding presence and intriguing history make it a must-see destination for anyone exploring this picturesque region of Germany. **A History Etched in Stone** The castle's story begins in the late 12th century when Count Palatine Henry I, brother of Emperor Otto IV, built a fortification on this strategic site. Legend has it that he named it after Toron Castle in Lebanon, which he had unsuccessfully besieged during the Third Crusade. The first documented mention of the castle dates back to 1209. However, Thurant Castle is most famous for its unique status as a double castle. In the 13th century, a dispute arose between the Archbishops of Cologne and Trier over control of the territory. The conflict culminated in a siege of the castle from 1246 to 1248. After the Archbishops jointly conquered the castle, they decided to divide it equally between them. A thick wall was constructed down the middle, creating two distinct halves, each with its own entrance, living quarters, and defensive towers. For centuries, the two halves of Thurant Castle were administered separately by burgraves appointed by the respective Archbishops. This unusual arrangement continued until the early 16th century when the castle began to fall into disrepair. During the War of the Palatine Succession in 1689, French troops further damaged the structure, leaving it in ruins. **A Phoenix from the Ashes** In 1911, Robert Allmers, a businessman with a passion for history, purchased the site and began a partial reconstruction of the castle. His efforts helped to preserve this important historical landmark for future generations. Since 1973, it has been a joint private residence of the Allmers and Wulf families. **Exploring Thurant Castle Today** Today, visitors can explore the lovingly restored Thurant Castle and discover its fascinating past. The castle is open to the public from March to mid-November, offering a glimpse into medieval life and stunning views of the Moselle Valley. As you wander through the castle grounds, you'll notice the distinct architectural styles of the two halves. The Trier side is accessible via a gatehouse and features a large inner courtyard, which was transformed into a rock garden in the 20th century. The Cologne Tower offers a magnificent view over the courtyards, vineyards and the Moselle. Doors and arches, battlements and wooden walkways can be discovered along the paths in the castle. A hunting room, a small chapel worth seeing, a wine cellar with barrels and a dungeon can also be admired. **A Feast for the Senses** Thurant Castle is not only a historical site but also a place of natural beauty. The surrounding vineyards produce some of the region's finest Riesling wines. The castle's elevated position provides panoramic views of the Moselle River as it winds its way through the valley. Several scenic hiking trails lead up to Thurant Castle, offering stunning panoramic views along the way. The popular Bleidenberger Ausblicke trail takes hikers through lush forests and vineyards before reaching the castle, while other routes wind through the picturesque Moselle landscape, passing historical landmarks and charming villages. **Practical Information** * **Location:** Burg Thurant, 56332 Alken, Germany * **Opening Hours:** Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, from May 1st to June 30th and from July 11th to October 9th. From October 10th to October 31st open from 10:00 to 17:00 and from November 1st to November 15th open from 10:00 to 16:00. * **Admission:** Check the official website for current admission fees. * **Parking:** Free parking is available at the castle. * **Accessibility:** The castle is located on a hill and involves some walking on uneven surfaces. Parts of the castle may not be accessible to visitors with mobility issues. **Nearby Attractions** Alken itself is a charming village with half-timbered houses and a picturesque waterfront. Other nearby attractions include: * **Eltz Castle:** One of Germany's most famous and well-preserved medieval castles. * **Cochem:** A charming town with a hilltop castle and a vibrant atmosphere. * **Koblenz:** A historic city at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Thurant Castle is more than just a castle; it's a symbol of the Moselle Valley's rich history, stunning natural beauty, and enduring spirit. A visit to this unique landmark is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the region.