Burg Hohenwittlingen, Medieval castle ruins in Wittlingen, Germany
Burg Hohenwittlingen is a medieval castle ruin that sits on a 667-meter ridge overlooking the Erms river. The complex displays defensive walls, remnants of the main residential building, and a substantial shield wall.
Knight Burkhard von Wittlingen built the fortress in the early 11th century, with his name first appearing in written records in 1089. The castle endured through the centuries before eventually falling into disrepair.
The castle served as shelter for reformer Johannes Brenz in 1548 when he needed protection. This event ties the place to the religious changes happening across the region during that era.
The site sits on an elevated ridge and requires effort to reach on foot from lower ground. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and allow time to explore the full extent of the ruins.
Local farmers trained their livestock to return to the castle independently, using it as shelter through the 18th century. This practice shows how deeply the site was woven into the daily life of the surrounding community.
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