description Burg Rheinfels Overview
Burg Rheinfels is a ruined hillside castle located in Sankt Goar, Germany, overlooking the Rhine River. Founded in 1245, the fortress grew into one of the largest castles along the Rhine and successfully withstood a major siege by French troops in 1692. Although the structure was largely dismantled by French Revolutionary forces in the late 18th century, significant remnants of its defensive works and residential buildings survive. It operates as a historical site with a hotel and museum.
help Burg Rheinfels FAQ
Why was Burg Rheinfels built in 1245?
Count Diether V von Katzenelnbogen built Rheinfels in 1245 as a toll castle for ships traveling upriver on the Rhine. It soon grew into a major military and administrative fortress above Sankt Goar. [Burg Rheinfels](https://www.burg-rheinfels.org/en/rheinfels-castle-history/)
Did Burg Rheinfels really withstand a French siege?
Yes. French forces under the Comte de Tallard attacked the fortress in 1692 during the War of the Palatine Succession but failed to capture it. The defense helped preserve Rheinfels's reputation as one of the strongest fortresses on the Middle Rhine. [Burg Rheinfels](https://www.burg-rheinfels.org/en/rheinfels-castle-history/)
Why is Burg Rheinfels now a ruin?
French Revolutionary troops blew up parts of the castle and its outer works in 1796 and 1797. The damaged fortress was later sold as French state property, and the town of Sankt Goar has owned it since 1925. [Burg Rheinfels](https://www.burg-rheinfels.org/en/rheinfels-castle-history/)
Can visitors enter the underground passages at Burg Rheinfels?
Some of the defensive and mining passages can be visited through guided tours during the summer season. The castle's official information describes the usual guided-tour period as April through the end of September, but opening details can change. [Burg Rheinfels](https://www.burg-rheinfels.org/en/rheinfels-castle-history/)
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