Burg Winzenburg, Medieval castle ruin in Freden, Germany.
Burg Winzenburg is a castle ruin on a hilltop in Freden with stone walls and a pentagonal keep at its center. The site displays layers of construction from different periods and is ringed by defensive earthworks.
The fortress began in the early 12th century under Bishop Bernhard I with wooden structures that were later rebuilt in stone. Under Bishop Bruno the defenses were strengthened and expanded significantly.
The site served as a regional stronghold for centuries and reflects the importance of fortified positions in this landscape. The ruins today show how communities built and maintained their presence in this hilly terrain.
Several hiking trails lead to the ruins from different starting points, with most routes being easy to moderate in difficulty. The site is accessible year-round and offers good views of the surrounding landscape from the hilltop.
The wall remains bear traces of a gunpowder explosion in 1522 that caused major damage during a siege by the Dukes of Brunswick-Lüneburg. This event marked the end of use as a working fortress and made repairs impossible.
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