Kaub: Smallest town in Germany with two impressive castles!

Kaub: Smallest town in Germany with two impressive castles!

Kaub, the smallest town in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, has around 800 inhabitants and is one of the smallest towns in Germany. Located in the Rhein-Lahn district, the city received city rights from Ludwig the Bavarian in 1324. Its picturesque location between the Rhine and steep vineyard slopes contributes to Kaub's appeal. The city has been part of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002 and looks back on a rich historical past.

Among the city's notable sights are the two medieval castles: Pfalzgrafenstein Castle and Gutenfels Castle. The latter, built between 1220 and 1230, is considered an outstanding example of Hohenstaufen castle architecture and has been opening its doors to overnight guests since 2022. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, whose oldest parts date back to 1327, stands on a small island in the Rhine and can only be reached by ferry. It serves as a venue for guided tours and cultural events.

Historical perspectives

Kaub's roots go back to prehistoric times. Finds, including a Roman single-handled jug from around 260 AD and ceramic shards from the La Tène period, provide evidence of early settlement. The place name Kaub could be derived from the Celtic “cabi” or the Latin “cubile” and is spelled differently in historical documents.

Kaub was first mentioned in a document on June 14, 983 as “Cuba villula” in a deed of donation from Emperor Otto II. Over the centuries, the city experienced various sieges, including in 1252 by King William of Holland. Historical events shaped Kaub's development, which is closely linked to shipping and viticulture. The pilot station on the Rhine was the largest of its kind and contributed to its economic importance, which lasted until the 19th century.

Sights and relaxation

Kaub offers numerous sights and opportunities for recreation for visitors. The Pilot Museum documents the tradition and history of Rhine navigation. Historical buildings, such as the former customs office and the market fountain from 1828, tell of the city's past. In the midst of this historical backdrop, numerous hiking trails, especially the Rheinsteig, invite you to explore the surrounding area.

The city is currently led by Mayor Bernd Vogt, while the highest point in the city is 74 meters above sea level. The number of citizens has experienced great fluctuations since the 16th century; For example, in 1578 there were 90 citizens living in Kaub; today there are around 800 residents. Despite its small size, Kaub manages to preserve history and culture in an appealing way and captivate visitors.