Reichsburg Cochem

Reichsburg Cochem was rebuilt in Gothic Revival style after Berlin businessman Louis Ravené bought the ruined castle in 1868. That restoration gives it the dramatic 19th-century castle look visitors now associate with the Moselle Valley.

The castle is first recorded in 1130, so the site has a medieval history even though much of the visible structure is a later rebuild. Its position above Cochem made it strategically important along the Moselle River.

Yes. The castle sits on a hill above Cochem, and visitors commonly reach it from the town by walking uphill or using local shuttle options in season. The view over the Moselle is a major reason people include it on wine-region trips.

The earlier castle was destroyed by French forces in the late 17th century during wars connected with Louis XIV's expansion. It remained ruined until Louis Ravené's 19th-century restoration project.