The interior of Nanstein has some nice examples of the authentic archecture, either original or restored. Even ruined sections can be of considerable interest. To the right, a photo showing the base sections of arches that supported a masonry structure above. These pieces appear to have been reinserted, but appear to be authentic.
Left, a restored stairway leading into the lower levels of the castle. Nanstein has an awesome labryinth of tunnels and barrel vaults below the main structure.
Left, one of the barrel vaults below. The stairway at the end is a different one than the one seen above.
Right, one of the chimneys in the lower level. Spending any considerable time in such deep levels within the castle would adversely impact one's health, as the temperature hovers around 55 degress Fahrenheit with high humidity.
Below, a close up of the end of the barrel vault showing the construction of the doorway.
Deeper into the tunnels and vaults below. The sections are lit up, but one can imagine going into these areas illuminated only by torchlight. Some reconstruction of these sections is visible, but by and large the sections are authentic, having only received some mortar to reinforce the walls.
This photo can give you an idea of how large some of the vaults are. The one above is only about eight feet high, but the one below reaches about 17 feet.
Right, an excellent view of rebuilt set of stairs that was carved directly into the sandstone.
Left, an example of authentic architecture having been restored. The sculpture has seen significant weathering with the details erased to history.
Below, an illustration of Nanstein at the height of its glory. It is shown with the town of Landstuhl below, their fortifications tied in together.
