Drachenburg - the Castle of a Dragon in Germany

Drachenburg, Germany

Drachenburg with its towers and terraces is not so old as it can seem. It was built in the second part of the XIX century on the right bank of the river Rhine not far from ex-capital of West Germany Bonn. Despite  its not a long history, there were events that at some time put the castle under the threat of demolition.

 

Rail to Drachenfels, Germany

So Drachenburg is situated on the Drachenfels mountain on the right bank of the river Rhine. The nearest town to Drachenburg is Koenigswinter. From Koenigswinter tourists can walk to the castle or use a special railway. 

Warning: the climb is long.

I chose climbing and on the way to the castle I met some cute dragons.

Drachenburg, Germany

Drachenburg, Germany

Drachenburg got its name because od the mountain on which it is located. Drachenfels is "the hill of dragon" in translation. And Drachenburg is "the castle of dragon". There is a legend that many centuries ago a dragon lived in the cave on this mountain.

Drachenburg, Germany

After a long climbing you see fantastic castle. It was built in 1882-1884. It is the mixture of a castle, palace and villa. But all building was created in neogothic style. It is not big, but really charming - outside and inside.

Drachenburg inside, Germany

Drachenburg inside, Germany

Drachenburg inside, Germany

Drachenburg inside, Germany

Moreover  the castle is an excellent viewpoint.

The sight from Drachenfels, Germany

They say that sometimes from this hill people can even see Cologne.

There is also a park but as a castle it is not big.

Drachenburg, Germany

The owner of the castle had no heirs. After his death the castle became the hotel. Later there was catholic boarding school, railway and military schools.

During the World War II the castle was almost completely destroyed. In 1970 it was decided to demolish Drachenburg. Almost before the demolition a sponsor bought it and began the reconstruction.

Now the castle is under state protection and tourists can enjoy its architecture.

Moreover, the castle is under gargoyles protection. These mythical creatures must protect him from evil.

Drachenburg, Germany

Before the Drachenburg in XII century there was another castle, that  was built to defend Сologne from attacks from the south. But it is another story.