Top 6 Castles around Oberthal
Castles near Oberthal offer a journey through the region's historical landscape. The municipality, located in the Sankt Wendel district of Saarland, Germany, is surrounded by numerous castle ruins. These sites provide insights into past eras and feature remnants of historical architecture. The area's terrain often places these structures on elevated positions, offering views of the surrounding countryside.
Best castles around Oberthal
- The most popular castles is Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg, a castle that features extensive Roman-era excavations. This…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden)
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Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg
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The extensive excavations that were carried out during the redesign of the Schaumberg plateau showed for the first time that the area was already being used intensively in …
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Nohfelden Castle Ruins
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The tower of the castle is freely accessible from April to October.
Every year in April there is a great medieval market around the castle.
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Liebenburg Castle Ruins and Tower
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Haankapelle and ruins of Schwarzenberg Castle
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At the height of the former castle stands the Haankapelle, which was built in 1837 by the Lasalle family of Louisenthal.
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The castle ruins are located in the center of Nohfelden, with a beautiful castle courtyard and an elevator up to the castle ruins.
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Can you take a short rest
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A very nice photo opportunity
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Since the @ Keo is right
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Interesting castle. In the immediate vicinity is also a butcher's shop/inn and the Bruunen for resting.
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Unfortunately the tower is not open.
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The spur castle was first mentioned in 1285. Its builder, Wilhelm Bossel II vom Stein, who came from Oberstein an der Nahe, had to grant the Count of Veldenz the right to open his castle in the deed. After the vom Stein family died out, the castle passed to the Counts of Veldenz. In the middle of the 15th century, the dukes of Palatinate-Zweibrücken acquired the castle and the dominion of Nohfelden. Until the French Revolution, the castle was the seat of a Zweibrücken bailiff. In 1490 the castle witnessed one of the saddest chapters in the history of Palatinate-Zweibrücken. After the death of Duke Louis the Black, his sons Kaspar and Alexander ruled together for a year when Alexander had his older brother deposed by force. He was taken to Veldenz Castle and remained there – even after the death of his brother – in captivity until his death in 1527. In the many wars of the 17th century, the castle did not go unmolested, but was always maintained. In 1661 Duke Friedrich died at the castle. In 1804 the castle was declared French national property and sold to the Cetto brothers from St. Wendel. After that, the castle complex, which was now used to procure building materials, fell into disrepair.
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The spur castle was first mentioned in 1285. Its builder, Wilhelm Bossel II vom Stein, who came from Oberstein an der Nahe, had to grant the Count of Veldenz the right to open his castle in the deed. After the vom Stein family died out, the castle passed to the Counts of Veldenz. In the middle of the 15th century, the dukes of Palatinate-Zweibrücken acquired the castle and the dominion of Nohfelden. Until the French Revolution, the castle was the seat of a Zweibrücken bailiff. In 1490 the castle witnessed one of the saddest chapters in the history of Palatinate-Zweibrücken. After the death of Duke Louis the Black, his sons Kaspar and Alexander ruled together for a year when Alexander had his older brother deposed by force. He was taken to Veldenz Castle and remained there – even after the death of his brother – in captivity until his death in 1527. In the many wars of the 17th century, the castle did not go unmolested, but was always maintained. In 1661 Duke Friedrich died at the castle. In 1804 the castle was declared French national property and sold to the Cetto brothers from St. Wendel. After that, the castle complex, which was now used to procure building materials, fell into disrepair. Today's owner of the castle ruins is the municipality of Nohfelden.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical periods do the castles around Oberthal represent?
The castles and ruins in the Oberthal region span various historical periods. For instance, the Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg feature extensive Roman-era excavations, with foundations dating back to the 1st/2nd century AD. Other sites like Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden) and Liebenburg Castle Ruins and Tower are medieval, with origins in the 12th and 13th centuries, offering insights into the region's feudal past.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles?
Many of the castles and ruins are strategically located on elevated positions, offering panoramic views. From the 20-meter-high keep of Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden), you can enjoy expansive vistas of the Nahe valley and Sankt Wendel County. Similarly, the reconstructed tower at Liebenburg Castle Ruins and Tower provides a mega all-round view of the surrounding area.
Are the castles around Oberthal family-friendly?
Yes, several castles offer family-friendly experiences. The Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg are noted as family-friendly, providing an engaging historical exploration. While specific activities vary, the open spaces and historical context at many sites make them suitable for family outings.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Oberthal offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find a variety of hiking trails, including routes like the 'Path Along the Upper Nahe' or the 'Oberthaler Moor Wooden Pathway'. For those interested in cycling, there are also road cycling routes, such as the 'Nonnweiler Reservoir' loop. Many of these trails pass by or offer views of the historical sites.
Can I take a guided tour of the castles?
Yes, guided tours are available for some of the castles. For Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden), guided tours can be arranged through the local tourist office. Liebenburg Castle Ruins and Tower also offers guided tours, sometimes featuring characters like 'knight Ludwig von Sötern', with dates available upon request from the Namborn Municipal Government.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Oberthal?
The best time to visit is generally from April to October, when the weather is milder and access to certain features is guaranteed. For example, the 20-meter-high keep at Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden) is accessible during these months. Visiting during spring or autumn also offers pleasant temperatures for exploring the ruins and surrounding hiking trails.
Are there accessible castles for visitors with mobility concerns?
For visitors with mobility concerns, Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden) has made efforts to improve accessibility. A modern lift and metal stairways enhance access to the castle plateau and the keep, allowing more visitors to enjoy the site and its panoramic views.
Where can I find parking near the castles?
Parking is generally available near the castle sites. For Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden), parking is typically found in the village of Nohfelden. For the Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg, parking is available at the Schaumberg itself, which is a popular destination with a tower and restaurant.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3928141" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg</a> unique?
The Schauenburg Ruins on the Schaumberg are unique for their significant Roman-era history. Extensive excavations have revealed an impressive building with mighty walls from the 3rd century AD, with foundations from the 1st/2nd century AD. Visitors can explore remnants of a 19-meter-long wall and vaulted cellars, offering a rare glimpse into early Roman settlement and defensive structures in the region.
What can I expect when visiting the Haankapelle and Ruins of Schwarzenberg Castle?
The Haankapelle and Ruins of Schwarzenberg Castle, located near Nonnweiler/Lockweiler, offer a tranquil historical walk. While largely ruins, you can explore the layout of the former castle, including defensive ditches, and see remnants of a building and a tower. The Haankapelle, built in 1837, stands at the height of the former castle, adding to the site's historical atmosphere. It's freely accessible via a forest path.
How can I reach the castles using public transport?
While specific public transport routes vary by castle, the region around Oberthal is generally served by local bus networks. For detailed information on reaching specific castles like Veldenz Castle (Nohfelden) or Liebenburg Castle Ruins and Tower, it is advisable to check local public transport schedules for the Sankt Wendel district, as connections might involve a combination of bus and a short walk.
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