Schloss Burg
Burg Castle is located on a rock directly above the Wupper in the Burg district of Solingen.
Today it is considered a landmark of the Bergisches Land, which can be completely overlooked from the castle.
At the same time, Burg Castle is one of the largest castles in Western Germany and the largest reconstructed castle complex in North Rhine-Westphalia.
History
In the High Middle Ages, Burg Castle was one of four centres of the County of Berg and served as the main residence of the Counts of Berg. It only lost this position to Düsseldorf in 1380 under Wilhelm II of Berg. Burg Castle was subsequently used as a hunting lodge by the ruling family, who had meanwhile been elevated to the rank of duke, before Benrath Castle was built outside Düsseldorf in the 1660s. Demolished as a result of the Thirty Years’ War and only used as the seat of a Berg waiter and judge until 1807, the complex fell into disrepair and became a ruin. In 1887, an association was founded to preserve the castle, which soon made its goal of rebuilding it.
The reconstruction work, which lasted from 1890 to 1914, was financed with support from several sources, including the German Imperial House.
The current owners of the complex, which was only listed as a historical monument in 1984, are the cities of Solingen, Remscheid and Wuppertal. Burg Castle is now used for a variety of cultural purposes, including as a museum, event venue and memorial. For example, it is possible to visit the complex from the inside, where you can see all kinds of interesting evidence of times gone by.
Seilbahn Burg
The Seilbahn at Schloss Burg, located in Solingen, is a popular cable car system that connects the town of Unterburg with the historic Schloss Burg castle perched high above the Wupper River. This scenic cable car, also known as the “Schloss Burg Seilbahn,” offers visitors a unique and convenient way to access the castle, bypassing the steep hike up to the fortress.
The Seilbahn, established in the mid-20th century, was designed to improve accessibility to Schloss Burg, particularly for tourists and locals looking for a relaxed and enjoyable journey to the castle. The cable car’s route offers spectacular aerial views of the lush Bergisches Land, the winding Wupper River, and the surrounding wooded hills.
It provides a picturesque ascent that adds to the overall experience of visiting the medieval castle.
Each ride on the Seilbahn takes a few minutes, and the cable cars can carry several passengers at a time, making it a practical and enjoyable option for families, hikers, or anyone who wants to avoid the steep climb. The journey offers panoramic vistas of the region, giving visitors a chance to appreciate the natural beauty and the historic significance of the area from a new perspective.
The Seilbahn is an integral part of the Schloss Burg experience, blending modern convenience with the medieval charm of the castle.
For many visitors, the cable car ride becomes one of the highlights of their trip, adding a touch of adventure and stunning views to the exploration of the historical site
It operates regularly, and during peak tourist seasons or special events, it is especially popular as a fun and easy way to reach the castle.
Kirche Unterburg
The Kirche Unterburg is a charming and historic Protestant church located in the Unterburg district of Solingen. Nestled in the picturesque Wupper River valley, just below the iconic Schloss Burg, the church holds an important place in the religious and cultural life of the local community.
The church was originally built in the late 17th century, with its foundations dating back to 1698. It is one of the oldest buildings in Unterburg and reflects the traditional architectural style of the Bergisches Land region, characterized by its simple yet elegant design. The exterior features the classic half-timbered construction, a hallmark of the region, while inside, the church maintains a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, making it a quiet retreat for worship and reflection.
Over the centuries, Kirche Unterburg has undergone various renovations and restorations, preserving its historic charm while ensuring it remains a functional space for the community. The church’s interior is modest but beautiful, with wooden pews, a small organ, and stained-glass windows that allow soft light to filter into the sanctuary. The bell tower, though not towering, adds to the charm of the church and calls the faithful to worship with its gentle chimes.
Kirche Unterburg has long been a center for Protestant worship in the region and continues to serve as an active parish church. Regular services, weddings, baptisms, and community events take place here, creating a strong bond between the church and the residents of Unterburg. Its location near the scenic Schloss Burg also makes it a popular stop for visitors exploring the area, who often appreciate its peaceful setting and historical significance.
Surrounded by the rolling hills and the scenic beauty of the Wupper Valley, Kirche Unterburg is a serene and historic landmark that reflects the deep-rooted traditions of the local community while offering a tranquil space for both worshipers and visitors alike.