Bürresheim Castle (Schloss Bürresheim) is located in the Eifel Mountains, northwest of Mayen in Rhineland-Palatinate. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was first mentioned in 1157. Originally, Bürresheim was two castles in one. There was a Cologne Castle and a Trier Castle because the complex stood directly on the border between the territories of the Archbishoprics of Cologne and Trier.
Bürresheim is both a medieval fortress (Burg) and a noble residence (Schloss). The pictures are from the visit to the castle on Sunday.
A Castle That Was Never Conquered
One of the most remarkable things about Bürresheim Castle is that it was never conquered or destroyed. It survived the wars of the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as the political and social changes following the French Revolution, without being destroyed. This is also what makes visiting the castle special. Inside, you can still see authentic historic furniture, family portraits, and leather wall coverings.
Over time, the noble Breidbach family became the sole owners of the castle, their most famous family member was Emmerich Joseph von Breidbach-Bürresheim, who served as Archbishop and Elector of Mainz from 1763 to 1774.
The castle remained inhabited by noble families until 1938.
A Hollywood Connection
You might recognize Bürresheim Castle from the movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Visiting Bürresheim Castle
The historic rooms can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Tours are generally conducted in German, but printed information in other languages is available.
Photography and filming are not permitted inside the historic rooms, so I only have photos of the castle’s exterior.
One practical tip: Mobile phone reception is very limited inside and around the castle. If you are planning to have dinner at a restaurant afterward, make your reservation before arriving at the castle.
Opening Hours
March 15 – October 31: Thursday to Sunday and public holidays, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM).
February 1 – March 14 and November 1 – November 30: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM).
December and January: Closed.
Location
Bürresheim Castle
Bürresheimer Straße 1
56727 St. Johann, near Mayen
Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
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