Life in Burg Eltz Castle

Introduction

• Description of waking up in a fairytale castle
• Location: Burg Eltz Castle, inhabited for over 800 years by the Eltz family
• Historical significance: featured on the 500 Deutsche Mark bill
• Instagram popularity: over 100K posts, attracting younger and international tourists

Characteristics of Burg Eltz Castle

• Location:
  • Secluded in a wooded valley, miles away from the nearest town
  • 15-minute walk through the forest to reach the castle
• Design:
  • Built for aesthetics rather than defense (11th-13th century)
  • Situated near the Moselle River, historically significant trade route
• Challenges of Living in a Castle:
  • Seclusion may be inconvenient (e.g., ordering takeout)
  • High heating costs in winter

Visitors' Perspectives on Living in a Castle

• Visitor Opinions:
  • Some find it beautiful and idyllic for day living
  • Nighttime may evoke fear due to isolation
  • Cleaning and maintenance would be challenging, but wealth could allow hiring help

Count Jakob von und zu Eltz

• Current Owner: Count Jakob took over in 2018
  • Regularly spends time at the castle
  • Considers living there special, but not luxurious
  • Enjoys the quiet atmosphere after tourists leave

Inside the Castle

• Architecture & Features:
  • Alcove for prayers adhering to medieval laws
  • Large family bed designed for warmth
  • Tapestries for decoration and insulation
  • Thick stone walls for temperature regulation
  • 40 fireplaces, indicating luxury of heat in medieval times

Maintenance and Upkeep

• Financial Dependence:
  • Heavy reliance on tourism for upkeep
  • Government support for maintenance
• Historical Features:
  • Significant wooden chopping block, a piece of history
  • Two other kitchens present; modernized one used by Count Jakob

Daily Life of Count Jakob

• Modern Living:
  • No staff; he cooks his own meals
  • Day-to-day life resembles that of most people
  • Works from home, integrating modern amenities

Conclusion

• Living in a castle has its charm but is not as glamorous as often imagined
• Winter cold and maintenance challenges exist, but the beauty of the surroundings may compensate for it.