Katzenstein Castle, Medieval castle in Dischingen, Germany
Katzenstein Castle sits on a hill near the Egau river valley with multiple towers and defensive walls overlooking the Härtsfeld region. The complex includes dining facilities and overnight accommodations accessible via the Frankensträßle road in the Heidenheim district.
The castle was founded in 1099 under the Lords von Cassenstein, who served as ministerial knights for the Count of Dillingen. A major fire in 1648 led to reconstruction of much of the structure.
The St. Laurentius chapel displays medieval wall paintings that reveal how residents integrated their faith into daily life at the castle. These artworks offer a glimpse into the spiritual world of those who lived within these walls.
Daytime visits work best to see all parts of the castle and the surrounding landscape clearly. Wear comfortable shoes as the hillside and uneven ground throughout the complex require steady footing.
The wall paintings in the chapel remained hidden for centuries under dirt and later decorations until they were rediscovered in 1973. This unexpected find revealed medieval artworks that might otherwise have been lost forever.
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