Brandenfels, Medieval castle ruin in Markershausen, Germany
Brandenfels is a castle ruin in Herleshausen situated on a hill approximately 452 meters high, surrounded by forests. The remains display an irregular quadrilateral structure with defensive ditches that once protected the western and northern sides.
The fortress was founded in the mid-13th century and changed hands among several noble families over time. The Treusch von Buttlar family took sole control in 1550 and maintained ownership until the castle's decline.
The name references the Brand family, who ruled the castle during medieval times and left their mark on the region. Visitors can still see the remains of how they organized the fortress to control the surrounding area.
The ascent to the ruins follows the Werra-Burgen-Steig hiking trail, which branches from the L3243 road and continues along an unpaved forest path. The walk takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, so bring sturdy footwear and water.
The eastern and southern edges of the ruin drop steeply into the valley, and on clear days you can spot the ruins of Brandenburg Castle across the Werra river in neighboring Thuringia. This positioning reveals how strategic this region was for controlling trade routes.
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