Runkel

The castle also includes some unique artifacts, such as this large winepress (right).

Left, a view into the main courtyard of the old castle.

Right, once you leave the restored rooms, you enter into the heart of the old castle.  These include numerous rooms and passageways that have had some restoration work to retain structural integrity, but have otherwise been left as they were.

There is some lighting in the deeper areas within the castle, and the inner design has some very unique features.  Passageways do not follow a predictable and normal pattern, making each turn and twist a unique adventure. 

Needless to say, children would LOVE this castle!

Below, a restored doorway to one of the rooms in the old castle.  The small "schild" at the top of the door is to aid you as you do the "selbsfuhrung."

Below, one of the towers in the castle.  Each of the several towers could allow for a coordinated interior defense if the castle was seriously penetrated by an attacker.

Below left, a view of the bridge over the Lahn River.  Note the lady taking a photo! 

The bridge, though dating from the 1440s, still carries vehicle traffic, though only autos and light trucks.  The road requires one way traffic at any given time, and some of the drivers take it VERY fast when crossing!  At the base of the castle, the road turns sharply left or right and visibility is limited... so watch yourself when walking the area!

Left, two views within a part of the castle.  The upper photo, with the nature of the "low" windows implies a debris field of about six-eight feet, unless these windows were purposely designed low for defensive purposes (and they may have been).

The next photo shows some of the restored roofs, rebuilt in authentic fashion with overlapping slate tiles.