The remains of the Castle can be visited
CastleBlankenheim - Schloßthal
Dollendorf Castle
The ruin of Dollendorf Castle is located in Schloßthal, a district of the municipality of Blankenheim in the Eifel region.
Dollendorf Castle is the ruin of an old hilltop castle that served as the residence of the nobles of Dollendorf, first mentioned in 893, until the middle of the 15th century. The castle is first documented in 1077. In the 12th century, it became a Cologne fief, and in the 13th century, it came under the feudal sovereignty of the Counts of Luxembourg and the Counts of Jülich.
Because of its silhouette, which is recognizable even from a distance, it is also called the Finger of God. This name comes from the fact that the over 20-meter-high keep remained half-standing. Since the castle stands on a hill, the top of this tower can be seen even from a great distance. People called it God's Finger because this tower resembles the shape of a finger and reaches high into the clouds. Its floor plan is still clearly recognizable, and some higher walls are also well preserved.
The Current Use of the Ruin+
Since not many tourists come to Schloßthal, this monument cannot establish itself as an appreciated attraction. However, it offers all interested parties an insight into the architecture; information signs provide information about the former use of the castle and its former inhabitants. Today, tourists and the inhabitants of Schloßthal use the castle grounds as a fire pit. It is also customary for many residents to celebrate New Year there, which is why the ruin offers an impressive sight, especially on the first day of the year.
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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: Jörg Heldt
This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.
Location: 50.3905, 6.7113