Burg Aerzen

Burg Aerzen is a stone and timber fortification set on elevated ground north of Hannover near Hamelin, with a rectangular footprint and multiple connected wings. The buildings display features from different eras, making their long development visible to visitors.

The site was first documented in 1293 as 'borch Artelsen' and fell under the rule of the Counts of Everstein. After being burned by Weimar troops in 1642, it was rebuilt and received an additional half-timbered section in the middle of the 18th century.

The castle serves today as a gathering place for local associations and groups that use the premises for meetings and events. This shows how the site remains woven into the daily life of the community.

The best route to the castle runs through Hamelin train station, from where bus services head to Aerzen. Those wanting to walk should allow extra time for the climb to the elevated ground.

A striking detail is the half-timbered extension wing added after 1750, which makes the rebuilding following fire damage visually apparent. This shows how the architectural form changed after the destruction.