This castle is in the Eifel and should not be confused with another namesake that has an elaborate resort-style hotel nearby.
The castle was first mentioned in 1136, and in 1265 was enfiefed to the Archbishop of Koln. By 1448, a 200 year long dispute over ownership began. During this time the castle was claimed by the Manderscheid-Schleiden family. During the Thirty Years War, the castle and part of the town was destroyed by the French.
After the Thirty Years War rebuilding began, and one family actually attempted to lay claim to the property by simply occupying it in 1653. After the rebuilding it was again destroyed by the French, this time in 1682. Again rebuilt over time, the castle was eventually abandoned as unecessary and fell into decay. Restoration work began in the 1900s and by 1969 the property was owned by local government authorities, being used as a boarding school. The castle grounds and outer works are open for viewing, but the inner ward and keep are closed to the public.
Above, a good view of the castle from the town of Kerpen. Left, the road leading to one of the gates that takes you into the outer ward.
Left, a walkway that leads up to the inner ward.
Right, a close up of part of the primary structure. Restoration work has allowed the complex to be used as a school and appears to be quite comfortable.
Right, a portion of the outer walls now in decay.
Right, part of the outer walls as seen from outside the castle.
Below, Kerpen dominates the town, being a typical posture for most castles. Their role was to provide local defense and the protection of trade routes in the area.
Left, a nice view of the sequenced gates leading to the outer ward. There is a place to park nearby and at this point you must proceed on foot.
