The great age of Medieval castle building began in the year 1000 and ended, for the most part, around 1500. These castles we saw on our afternoon journey date from that time and represent one of the best manifestations of Medieval castles – so much so that this area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Castles were built on the top of hills by German nobles, who usually collected toll from passing ships. At the bottom would be a town with a characteristic church and various homes and businesses.
Most were blown up by the French, when they retreated from Germany, after having been defeated by the Prussians. Needless to say, the French are not highly regarded for their dastardly deeds. Many have been restored, and more, as people buy them to use as hotels or other tourist venues.
This little castle is situated on an island in the river. Chains could be raised that would block ship traffic, giving the ship captain no choice but to pay the toll.
It is amazing to me how those castles were built, at the time they were build. How did they do it????!!!!! Wonderful that some are being restored. I would love to have a little cottage in that town. Floyd wanted to know if they had a Taco Bell there.