Ramstein Castle

Kordel, Germany, Germany

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Ramstein Castle is a ruined hilltop fortress near Kordel in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, constructed in the early 14th century by Archbishop Diether of Nassau of Trier to replace an earlier fortified manor farm first documented around 926 as "Runnesstein."

Completed around 1317 under his successor Baldwin of Luxembourg despite disputes with local nobles, it served as a strategic fief of the Electorate of Trier along ancient Roman roads, passing through vassals like cathedral deans and enduring sieges, occupations, and fortifications through the centuries.

Destroyed by French forces in 1689 during the War of the Palatine Succession, the site features remnants of walls, towers, and a preserved "Brunnenstein" memorial to its water supply innovation, now a hiking destination amid scenic vineyards.