Kastell Holten, Medieval castle in Holten district, Oberhausen, Germany
Kastell Holten is a medieval water castle in Oberhausen, with its surviving east wing showing the defensive architecture of its era. The site was naturally protected by marshland on multiple sides, demonstrating how medieval builders used geography for protection.
Count Engelbert II of the Mark built this castle in 1307 as a stronghold against the neighboring County of Cleves. Spanish troops occupied it from 1586 to 1598, marking the start of a long period of military use that continued through subsequent centuries.
The building now serves as a meeting place for a local shooting guild that has gathered here for generations. This use keeps the structure connected to community traditions that reach back through the centuries.
The site is located at Kastellstraße 56 and can be reached by public transport, with Holten Markt station being the closest stop. Keep in mind that this is a privately used building, so viewing access may be limited or require advance planning.
Only the east wing survives from the original structure, while other sections have disappeared over time. This fragmented remains tell a story of how the building changed across the centuries.
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