Burg Stadeck, Medieval water castle in Stadecken-Elsheim, Germany.
Burg Stadeck is a medieval water castle built on a Selz river peninsula, featuring a main residence, fragments of a defensive wall, a corner tower, and a barn alongside a herb garden. The layout reveals how living quarters, fortifications, and agricultural spaces were integrated into a single stronghold.
Count Eberhard I of Katzenelnbogen founded this fortress in 1276 as a regional stronghold. A succession change around 1349 transformed it into an administrative center for the surrounding area under new oversight.
The castle barn hosts exhibitions, concerts, and readings that serve the local community throughout the year with public programs. These spaces reflect how the site remains active in cultural life today rather than existing only as a historical monument.
The main residence is private property, though the herb garden and courtyard become accessible when public events are held at the venue. Checking the event calendar beforehand helps you visit when the castle is open to see more of the grounds.
A 14th-century tower originally functioned as a toll station on the postal route running between Mainz and Bad Kreuznach. This role shows the fortress controlled commercial traffic as well as serving as a residence.
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