Burg Wildenburg, Medieval castle in Friesenhagen, Germany
Burg Wildenburg is a medieval castle in Friesenhagen, set on a steep hillside above the Wildenburger Bach valley. The castle has a tower roughly 25 meters (82 feet) tall, and the inner buildings are currently used as offices by the Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg Forestry Administration.
The castle was founded around 1235 following a division of inheritance between Heinrich and Gerhard von Aremberg, who chose this hillside as a base for their rule. It remained largely intact for centuries before parts were taken down in the 19th century for safety reasons.
The tower of Burg Wildenburg carries a baroque dome added in the 18th century, giving this medieval structure a mix of building styles that is easy to spot. Walking through the grounds, visitors can still see remnants of the old chapel and the outlines of former residential wings.
The outer grounds can be reached by a steep road or a hiking trail, so sturdy footwear is a good idea. The main residence is not open to visitors, but the outer area can be explored on foot.
Though located in a region that saw repeated warfare, the castle suffered no military damage until 1830, which sets it apart from most comparable fortifications nearby. The name Wildenburg comes from the family that held land in this area even before the current structure was built.
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