Schwanenburg, Castle in Kleve, Germany

Schwanenburg is a castle on a steep hill at the northern end of the Kermisdahl River, where it meets the Spoykanal. The structure comprises several buildings, with the Swan Tower being the most prominent feature at approximately 180 feet (55 meters) tall.

Schwanenburg was first mentioned in monastery records around 1020 and later served as a residence for the Dukes of Cleves. The site underwent numerous transformations and remained a significant seat of power in the region for centuries.

The castle's name comes from a weather vane shaped like a large swan, whose wings were the crest of the ducal coat of arms. Around 1233 the Counts of Cleves added the carbuncle to their arms, referring to the legendary Swan Knight Helias as their ancestor. The Swan Knight legend, linked to Lohengrin, also gave the Swan Tower its name in the Middle Ages.

The Swan Tower is visible across the city and provides an orientation point for visitors exploring the old town. The building now houses the district court and a geological museum within the tower, so it is important to check visiting hours beforehand.

An inscription at the entrance of the Swan Tower claims that Julius Caesar built this fortification 300 years before the birth of Christ. This claim is historically disputed and reflects local legends more than verified facts about the site.