The village of Kirspenich has a Celtic-Roman origin, as can be seen from its name, but it first appeared in records in 893 AD in the property register of Prüm Abbey.
The castle's square residence tower, made of rough stone, dates back to Gerlach von Dollendorf, who owned Kirspenich in 1278. In the 14th century the castle tower, which is mentioned in official records in 1301, was raised by two storeys. Despite further extensions and improvements during the 16th century Kirspenich never became the country seat of knights. In the 18th century the estate belonged to the Baron von Friemersdorf, who had the baroque residence, resembling a maison de plaisance and comprising 16th century parts, built against the tower.
At the beginning of the 20th century the castle functioned as a restaurant, which was extended to include further outbuildings and a large dance-hall. In the 90's the estate was fundamentally and thoroughly restored after decades of neglect.
References:Duino Castle was built by the Wallsee family in 1389 on the cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Trieste. It replaced an older castle from the 11th century. Over time, the Wallsee family disappeared and the castle, after having been used as a prison, became the residence of the Luogar and Hofer.
At the end of the 19th century it became the property of Prince Alexander von Thurn und Taxis from the Czech branch of the House of Thurn and Taxis. It remains with the family to this day with his great-grandson Prince Carlo Alessandro della Torre e Tasso, Duke of Castel Duino the current owner. The castle has been opened to the public as a museum and park.