Bourscheid Castle (French: Château de Bourscheid, German: Burg Bourscheid, Luxembourgish: Buerg Buerschent) is one of Luxembourg’s most striking medieval castles, perched dramatically 150 meters above the River Sûre. Located near the village of Bourscheid in the northeastern part of the country, the castle offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the site has been occupied since Roman times. Today, the castle stands as a testament to Luxembourg’s medieval heritage, attracting visitors from around the world.
A History Rooted in the Middle Ages
The first written records of Bourscheid Castle date back to 1095, but evidence suggests that the castle was constructed around the year 1000 on earlier foundations. At that time, Bourscheid was part of the County of Luxemburg within the Holy Roman Empire. Over the centuries, the castle underwent several expansions, transforming it into the impressive stronghold it is today.
The outer defensive wall, built in 1350, encircles the castle and features 11 watchtowers, which add to its imposing appearance. Within these walls, various structures were added, including the Stolzembourg house in 1384 and the courtyard in 1477. The castle’s gateway, dating from the late 15th century, leads to a ditch protected by four towers that block access to the upper and lower sections of the castle. The southern and eastern towers, added in 1498, and the artillery bastions from the 16th century reflect the ongoing military needs of the castle during that era.
The 15th century saw significant development in the upper part of the castle, including the installation of a grand fireplace and chimney, which were completed a century later. The castle remained in the possession of the House of Metternich until the French Revolution, which brought an end to their feudal control.
Decline and Restoration
In the aftermath of the French Revolution, Bourscheid Castle passed into the hands of Schenk von Schmidtburg, who attempted to repair the decaying structure. However, the castle continued to deteriorate over the following decades. By the 19th century, the chapel had collapsed, and there were even discussions about demolishing the entire building.
Fortunately, in 1936, Bourscheid Castle was declared a listed historical site, sparing it from demolition. In 1972, the Luxembourgish state acquired the castle, thanks in part to the efforts of the Friends of the Castle of Bourscheid association. Extensive restoration work was undertaken, and today the castle is fully accessible to visitors, although it remains primarily an open-air ruin.
Visiting Bourscheid Castle
Bourscheid Castle is open to visitors year-round, with seasonal hours. From April 1 to October 15, the castle welcomes guests from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm. From October 16 to March 31, it operates on a shorter schedule, opening from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Admission costs seven euros, with discounted prices available for students, children, and adults. Visitors can enhance their experience with an audio tour, available in Luxembourgish, German, French, Dutch, and English. However, it’s important to note that audio guides are not provided to guests arriving within 90 minutes of closing.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to explore one of Luxembourg’s most scenic castles, Bourscheid Castle offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the medieval world. Its towering walls, ancient towers, and breathtaking views of the River Sûre make it a must-visit destination in Luxembourg.