Kriebstein Castle, Rock castle in Middle Saxony, Germany.
Kriebstein Castle rises on steep rocks above the Zschopau River and features a massive rectangular keep that forms the core of the structure. The layout combines tower and ring-wall techniques into a single defensive design built over several generations.
The castle was founded in 1384 as a fortified stronghold and later expanded with residential buildings and a chapel. This 15th-century building phase transformed it from a military fortress into a noble residence.
The chapel displays late medieval craftsmanship through its original cross-ribbed vaults and carved stone details. Visitors can observe how medieval stonemasons worked directly in the architecture.
The castle opens to visitors from February through October with seasonal hours that adjust throughout this period. Guided tours are offered most days, though closures occur on Mondays.
The Halsgraben is a man-made defensive ditch that cuts off the main castle from the surrounding elevated ground and made siege warfare difficult. This ditch system provided a crucial layer of protection that medieval hilltop fortresses needed against attackers.
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