Castellum of Weltenburg-Frauenberg

The Castellum of Weltenburg-Frauenberg is a Roman fort that sits on a rocky spur overlooking the Danube River. The site occupies a strategically important location where the water served as a natural boundary and defensive structures were built for protection.

The site was built during Roman times as part of the Donau-Iller-Rhein-Limes, a major fortification system marking the empire's northern frontier. Later, the location may have served as a bishop's seat during the early medieval period.

The site takes its name from the nearby Frauenberg, crowned by a church that shapes the local landscape. The area became linked to religious life as it later developed into a center of monastic activity in the region.

The site holds protected monument status and requires advance permission from local authorities for any archaeological research activities. Using the marked pathways is recommended to safely explore the elevated location.

Excavations until 2008 revealed that the fort served multiple purposes over time and may have functioned as a bishop's castle from the 10th century onwards. This transformation from military fortification to church-held fortress makes the site a rare example of a place's continuity across centuries.

Location: Kelheim

Part of: Donau-Iller-Rhein-Limes, Cultural heritage D-2-7136-0052 in Kelheim

GPS coordinates: 48.89570,11.82290

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:25