Rheinland-Pfalz

When you are ready to explore regions other than Baden-Württemberg, consider going to the area of Pfalz in the neighboring region of Rheinland-Pfalz. Pfalz not only has the Pfälzer Wald, which has numerous trails through beautiful country side, but also has several castles and interesting cities.

Die Reichberg Trifels

Tower of Reichberg Trifels

Die Reichberg Trifels is a castle situated on top of a mountain in the Pfälzer Wald. Originally built sometime in the 11th century, the castle had fallen into ruin by the time of the Second World War. The Nazi Party reconstructed the castle and most of what can be seen today comes from this reconstruction. There are still a few areas in the castle where one can see the original stone work and castle walls. In it's prime, die Reichberg Trifels served not only as a castle for the king, but also served as the imperial treasury.

Inside the castle, one can explore the prison, thrown room, and towers. One of the towers contains the replicas of the crown, septer, globus cuciger (orb with a cross on top symbolizing power), and several other objects that once belonged to the rulers of the castle. While these are only copies, they are still beautiful and give the visitor an idea of the wealth and power that these kings once had. The original objects are located in a museum in Vienna (but that's a trip for another time).

Replica of the crown

Arguably the best feature of die Reichberg Trifels is the view from the top of the tower. From the tower, one can see everything from the surrounding castles on other mountains, vineyards, towns, and the Pfälzer Wald. The view seems to go on and on and every area you look over is more beautiful than the last.

Die Reichberg Trifels is also famous for imprisoning King Richard III of England. King Richard III was held captive for three weeks inside the castle. According to the legend, the king of Trifels demanded 23 tons of silver as ransom for King Richard's release. The castle reenacts this dramatic story at 15 o'clock in the throne room.

View from the top of the tower

Neustadt

If you are in the area in the fall, consider visiting Neustadt for the Weinfest (Wine Festival). Pfalz is home to the second largest wine region in Germany. To get to Neustadt, one must drive down Weinstraße which contains miles of vineyards on either side. Once in Neustadt, one can sample the many different kinds of wine and food at the Weinfest. Make sure to get a spot along the street for the Weinfest parade. The parade has over a hundred floats and can last over two hours. Each vineyard in the parade has a Wine Princess, but the most important floats contain the new Wine Queens of Neustadt. Make sure to bring a cup with you because vineyards willingly give out samples of their wines to anyone on the street to sticks out an empty cup.

Marching band members