Lorch is one of the oldest towns on the Rhine. It is situated on the entrance to the Wisper valley and this was beneficial for the town’s development. Lorch became a meeting point for ships navigating the Rhine, in order to avoid the Binger Loch. The goods were either re-loaded onto smaller boats or transported from Lorch to Rüdesheim or Geisenheim over land. Wine, wood and drapery brought prosperity to the town which is mirrored in the buildings. A carved and richly decorated High Altar from the 15th century is the show-piece of the St Martin’s church. The “Hildchenhaus”, dating back to the 16th century, is known to be the most beautiful example of renaissance architecture on the Middle Rhine and still is an enrichment to the town. The ruin of the Nollig castle lies high above the Rhine and is only one of the many castle ruins which are spread out along the Wisper valley.  Many tours start from here through the vineyards or along the placid Wisper valley with its many mills and countless meanders.