Manderscheid, a charmingly situated village in the Lieser valley, is known for its two castles: Oberburg (the upper castle) and Niederburg (the lower castle). The Manderscheid family was the most powerful family in the Eifel region of Germany for a considerable period of time in the 15th century, and until today the imposing ruins remind the visitor of the glory of bygone times when the counts of Manderscheid had their residence here.Niederburg Castle was probably built in the 12th century, shortly after Oberburg Castle had been built. By 1688 at the latest, Niederburg Castle and Oberburg Castle were destroyed. After being in the possession of France and then of Prussia both castles became administered by the Castles Administration of Rhineland-Palatinate. Niederburg Castle was restored in the late 70’s and Oberburg Castle in the early 90’s. Niederburg Castle consists of more remnants than Oberburg Castle. It can be seen from far away because of its three-storey keep of the 12th century, having a trapezium shape.