Schaaken Castle

Schaaken Castle is a fortress ruin with an octagonal layout located in Nekrassowo, Russia. Its brick walls display construction phases from different periods and retain portions of the original structure.

The Teutonic Knights built the first wooden fortress here in 1270 and later reconstructed it in stone from 1328 onward. In the 1500s it transformed from a military stronghold into a ducal residence.

The fortress held meaning for successive rulers who left their mark on its stone walls and layout. Walking through it today, visitors sense the layers of different powers that once controlled this place.

A small museum with medieval objects sits within the grounds and visitors can arrange activities like horseback riding in the area. Wear sturdy shoes as the ruins have uneven terrain and worn pathways.

Several notable military and political leaders chose to stay here and conduct important operations from its walls. This connection to influential historical figures gave the castle outsized importance beyond its military role.