Burg Stolzeneck, Medieval castle ruin in Neunkirchen, Germany
Burg Stolzeneck is a castle ruin in Neunkirchen built on a mountain spur about 208 meters (680 feet) above the Neckar River. The site consists of a main fortress area with a defensive walkway and an outer bailey where an old well still stands.
The fortress was built around 1200 as an imperial stronghold and shaped the Neckar Valley for centuries. It became a possession of the Palatinate from 1284 until its abandonment in 1610.
The name Stolzeneck refers to the castle's proud position rising on a rocky spur above the Neckar Valley. You can still see how the fortification and its walls once monitored the entire valley below.
The main castle area is currently closed due to cracks and falling stones, but the outer bailey with its well remains open to visitors. The climb to the ruins is steep, so wear sturdy shoes and allow time for the ascent.
Archaeological digs in 1964 uncovered foundation lines running diagonally that did not follow the palace walls. These findings suggest the fortress underwent rebuilding after 1350 and again during the 16th century.
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