Entenstein Castle, Medieval castle in Schliengen, Germany.
Entenstein Castle is a stone fortress standing in the center of Schliengen surrounded by a deep water-filled moat. Black and yellow striped shutters distinctly mark the building's appearance.
An early documented structure at this location dates to 821 under Walter of Schliengen, while it gained prominence under Rudolf von Üsenberg between 1207 and 1231. The building evolved over centuries to meet the needs of its occupants.
The castle's name combines the German words 'ente' for duck and 'stein' for stone, reflecting the connection between the structure and its water features. This naming choice reveals how the surroundings shaped the place's identity.
The castle functions as Schliengen's city hall since 1975, housing municipal offices and administrative services. Visitors should note that some areas may only be accessible during specific opening hours.
The black and yellow striped shutters served as a warning system to alert people about the deep moat. This practical safety measure distinguished the fortress from other castles.
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