The Niederburg was built around 1133 by a noblemen of Manderscheid. Until 1749 the castle was the property of the family of the then counts of Manderscheid and was ultimately destroyed by French troops. Since 1889 the castle has been the property of the Eifel Association that promotes the many hiking trails located in the area. The Oberburg was built around 973 by the same noblemen of Manderscheid. In 1147 the ownership was transferred to the Electorate of Trier where it remained until is was also destroyed by French troops.
The castles are located all but a stone's throw from each other. Not one of my throws, for my softball team will attest, but perhaps someone like Ichiro could reach. This picture is the view from atop the 5-story lookout tower in the Oberburg castle.
Back to the history...both castles are situated on steep rocks and divided by the Lieser river. During the summer months, the Niederburg castle offers visitors food and drink inside a candle-lit room where one can imagine what is must have been like to feast in such a primitive environment.
A popular event held during the last weekend of August is the Manderscheid Historical Castle Festival. The medieval tournament takes place at the Niederburg castle where you can watch knights go head to head in battle with lance and bow, the minstrels, magicians, and jugglers entertain the crowds, and craftsmen display the handmade tools of the era. Below are more pictures of the Niederburg castle.
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