Katzenelnborg

Katzenelnbogen is a town in Germany located in the Rhein-Lahn district of Rhineland-Palatinate. It is situated on the Lahn River, approximately 12 kilometers west of Koblenz. The town is historically significant as the ancestral seat of the Counts of Katzenelnbogen, a noble family that rose to prominence in the Middle Ages. The Counts of Katzenelnbogen played a notable role in the Holy Roman Empire, holding territories that included parts of Hesse and the Rhineland. Their influence extended to strategic positions and marriages, contributing to their power and prestige.

The most prominent surviving landmark associated with the family is the Burg Katzenelnbogen, a medieval castle that overlooks the town. While much of the castle is in ruins, it remains a symbol of the town's rich history and a popular tourist attraction. The town itself retains a charming medieval character with narrow streets and well-preserved half-timbered houses. Katzenelnbogen is also known for its wine-growing region, producing Riesling wines. The local economy today relies on a combination of tourism, agriculture, and small businesses. The town's name, meaning "cat's elbow" in German, is thought to refer to a sharp bend in the Lahn River.