The Lion´s castle

Anyone hiking in the Siebengebirge will sooner or later come across the impressive ruins of Löwenburg Castle. Founded in the late 12th century, most likely by Count Heinrich II of Sayn, the castle still stands proudly on its mountain top. It was built on a hardened volcanic dike of latite – a rock formed by volcanic activity around 25 to 26 million years ago. The original volcano was much higher but was gradually eroded away over millions of years.

At the foot of the hill lies the Löwenburger Hof, once a farm and forester’s house, later transformed into a popular excursion inn. Today, it continues to welcome hikers for a well-deserved rest.

Reaching the site is easy: take the bus from Königswinter to Margarethenhöhe. From there, a scenic hike of about 30 to 45 minutes leads to the castle ruins, passing the Löwenburger Hof and through beautiful forests.

History

First documented mention in 1247 as castrum Lewinberg.

Extended in the 13th century with a main castle, outer wards, and fortifications.

From 1484 part of the Duchy of Jülich-Berg and seat of the Löwenburg administrative district.

From the 16th century onwards, the fortress fell into decline due to war and destruction.

In the 19th century, parts were dismantled, but later stabilization prevented complete collapse.

Nature & Geology

The Siebengebirge is a remnant of long-extinct volcanoes. Hard rocks such as trachyte, latite, and basalt form the surviving peaks, while softer tuffs eroded away.

Volcanism began in the Oligocene, about 25 million years ago, shaping the striking landscape.

The region is still uplifting slightly today – about one millimeter per year – which enhances erosion.

Landscape, Flora & Fauna

The Löwenburg lies within the Siebengebirge Nature Park, one of Germany’s oldest protected areas.

Forests of beech, oak, and mixed species dominate, enriched with ferns, mosses, and fungi.

Wildlife includes woodpeckers, birds of prey, deer, and wild boar.

From the castle ruins, hikers enjoy sweeping views over the Rhine Valley and the surrounding peaks – an unforgettable highlight of the Siebengebirge.