Emichsburg, Medieval garden structure in Ludwigsburg, Germany

Emichsburg is a structure of two connected towers of different heights positioned on a rocky rise above the Lower East Garden and Emichsee lake. The building contains narrow spiral stairs inside and offers wide views across the palace gardens from the top.

Built between 1798 and 1802 to plans by Nikolaus Friedrich von Thouret, the Emichsburg was erected in the eastern garden of Ludwigsburg Palace, today the Blühendes Barock, in a medieval style above a former quarry. It was built on the ideas of Duke Friedrich II during the redesign of this garden area and is considered the main work of the English garden section.

The name refers to Emicho, brother of Count Ludwig I, documented in the 12th century. The structure is a folly, a decorative building without practical purpose, built as a garden staffage. Today it serves as Rapunzel's tower in the Märchengarten, and in the basement an animation presents the giant Rübezahl.

To visit the towers, you need to climb over 150 steps via narrow spiral stairs, which requires good fitness. Wear sturdy shoes and take care on the narrow stairs, especially when moving around at the top.

In the Märchengarten, one tower of the Emichsburg serves as Rapunzel's tower. In the basement, an animation presents the giant Rübezahl, a figure from German mountain legends.