Spangenberg Castle, Rock castle in Palatine Forest, Germany
Spangenberg Castle is a stone fortress ruin perched on sandstone rocks above the Elmstein valley, commanding views across the forested Palatinate landscape. The remaining walls show traces of former residential quarters and defensive gateways that were built to conform to the rocky terrain.
The castle was built in the 11th century and was administered by the Prince-Bishopric of Speyer. It changed hands multiple times through the centuries until warfare destroyed it in 1618.
The castle maintains connections to regional folklore through the Legend of the Leather Bridge and tales of an evil knight named Caspar.
The ruins are reachable on foot through forest paths leading to the hilltop location. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is steep and uneven, and allow time to explore the site properly.
The fortress served as residence for the master of a nearby stud garden from 1505 until its destruction during the Thirty Years' War.
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