Burg Freckleben

This historic fortress features a prominent 22-meter tall bergfried with an octagonal top, massive stone walls reaching 3 meters in thickness, and extensive ramparts covering approximately 80 by 100 meters in a pentagonal layout.

First documented in 762 AD as 'Frekenlevo', the castle was constructed by the Markgrafen of Nordmark in the 12th century and later held by various noble families including the Herren von Stade until Graf Udo's death in 1130.

The fortress exemplifies Romanesque architecture with later Gothic additions, serving as a protected cultural heritage monument that hosts medieval festivals, historical reenactments, and educational programs highlighting regional building techniques and feudal history.

Visitors can explore the grounds Monday through Friday from 10:00 to 16:00, with weekend access by appointment, featuring free outdoor exploration and guided climbing of the bergfried via unique rotatable internal ladders.

Archaeological excavations have uncovered 12th-century silver coins bearing the image of Albrecht the Bär, while the bergfried contains rare rotatable spinning ladder mechanisms, making it one of Germany's most unusual castle tower climbing experiences.