Traben-Trarbach is a twin city, with Traben on the west side of the Mosel, and Trarbach on the east. These twin cities first started as the agricultural settlement of Traben, being first mentioned in documents in 820 AD. The area was not considered strategic, and received minimal damage in the wars that raged about it over the centuries.
Traben began to extend to the east side of the river, which led to the development of Trarbach. This town showed up in official documents during the 1200s. A few small castles were built in the area, but offered little resistance when the French occupied the region in the 1790s. During the 1800s, wine became the major product of the region.
Because it is relatively undamaged, Traben-Trarbach is an excellent example of medieval German architecture and well worth a visit.
Above right, a view into Traben. Right, the gate between Trarbach, with Traben behind the photographer. Below, another view inside Traben.
