Burg Reichenbach, Castle ruin in Hessisch Lichtenau, Germany
Burg Reichenbach is a medieval castle ruin located on a hilltop near Hessisch Lichtenau at approximately 522 meters elevation. Remains of the original fortress include parts of a tower, thick walls, and old defensive ditches.
The fortress was founded around the year 1000 by the counts of Gozmar and changed hands multiple times throughout its existence. In 1550, Emperor Charles V ordered its destruction, which led to the ruined state seen today.
The ruins show how medieval castles were built to control and defend the surrounding land. Walking around the site, visitors can still see how the thick walls and the location high on the hill made sense for those purposes.
The castle grounds can be reached via Schulbergstraße 5 in Hessisch Lichtenau, where parking is available at the base of the hill. The climb to the ruins is on foot and offers views across the surrounding landscape along the way.
In 1899, the keep of the fortress was specifically restored to serve as an observation tower. From its top, visitors can see out across the Reichenbacher Kalkberge nature reserve.
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