Wartburg Castle

Wartburg Castle has been put on the WH List because it is seen as a "outstanding monument of the feudal period in central Europe".

The origins of Wartburg Castle date back to 1067. In that year a watching tower was constructed here by Ludwig der Springer.
Its current imposing shape started to develop with the construction of the Palas (the main body) in 1155. The Landgraves of Thuringia owned and expanded the castle from that time until the 15th century.

The castle's history has been coloured with theological and artistic highlights rather than for military reasons.
During 1521 and 1522 for example, Martin Luther lived here in exile. He made good use of his time by translating the New Testament into German.

Year	Decision	Comments
1999	Inscribed	Reasons for inscription

Visit March 2005

A surprise visit this one was. After spending the Easter weekend in Weimar, I noticed I had to pass Eisenach to drive back to Holland. And my way-too-big-to-be-handy Germany road map showed "Wartburg Castle" next to Eisenach and the motorway. So I just had to take the chance. I always enjoy the anticipation that is involved in visiting sites unprepared. Will I be able to find it? I hope it isn't closed today! What's the story behind this site anyway?

The castle is well-signposted in Eisenach, even in Japanese! As castles go (and monasteries), Wartburg is located strategically on the top of a hill. According to reports I've read, the view from here on the surrounding countryside must be marvellous. However the weather was so misty that morning that I didn't see the castle until I arrived at its bridge.

The castle has a quite unusual shape, a bit bulky. With a guided tour I visited its interior (I even had to queue to gain entrance, this is a really popular sight). In some rooms only the Romanesque design can be admired (the 12th and 13th century ones), others are brilliantly decorated (the ones that date from the 19th and 20th century). I finished my well-spent morning with a local Thüringer Bratwurst, providing more than enough calories to burn during the six hour drive home.

More photos can be found in the Picture Gallery

Reviews

Lucinda Lewis (Brazil):
I have been there in 2000 and I loved it. The view is great. If you can go check out the minas also.

Date posted: July 2008

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I have been to many castles and this is by far the best to learn about and be at

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I have visited numerous castles in my life but never one so rich with beauty in each and every room. The tile work, wood in lays,frescoes and the tapestries are second to none, such that each room is a separate museum of it's own. The castle itself has such a fascinating historical background from the early days of Saint Elisabeth to Martin Luther's stay while he translated the New Testament into German, that it shouldn't be missed. Adjacent to the castle is a five star hotel which a group of us stayed at and the food,service and the rooms (each one is unique)was first class.

Tunnelvision (India):
It is an outstanding monument of Feudal Period in Central Europe, having Cultural Values of Universal Significance, a wonderful piece of history and architecture.
I had an opportunity to visit this magnificent monument during my stay in Eisenach. I still remember the way it has been kept in fine shape with loving and efficient care. It is a must see for a person interested in ancient buildings and history. I hope to revisit some times in future, it is my one of the cherished dreams.

Marcel (Germany):
Wartburg Castle in Eisenach is really beautiful! We went there by feet from the city which took us around 30 minutes, way too much for older people I guess, especially when you consider the slope. But with a guided tour and a Thüringer Bratwurst afterwards it's really worth the walk up the hill. ;-)

Date posted: March 2006

Joseph M. Menius (USA):
I marvel at how the WARTBURG sits so majestically on that hillside overlooking Eisenach. One can understand why it was one of Martin Luther's favorite places to visit as you feel like your setting on top of the world. I been there several times and find it facinating on every visit.

Date posted: October 2005

Cassie (United States):
The Wartburg Castle is absolutely magnificent. I have no other experiences with castles to compare it to, and from living in Eisenach for two months I understand from the citizens that many consider it to be 'not a real castle' because of the fact it is so renovated; however, I still think it is a wonderful piece of architecture and history. The tour guide does an excellent job of relaying in English what the castle involves, the deep, rich history, and many important aspects of it's existence. I was also able to meet the owner, he is a lovely man....everyone who works there, works hard to ensure the castle remains as great as it was. I would highly recommend coming to Eisenach and staying, going to the castle, and just enjoying the town. Everyone is extremely nice, and we had an easy time getting around without a lot of German language experience.

Teresa Mysyk (USA):
Breath taking, incredable, wonderful, amazing. Go see it if you can.

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