Wasserburg Goldstein, Medieval water castle in Frankfurt-Goldstein, Germany.
Wasserburg Goldstein is a medieval fortified structure in Frankfurt-Goldstein with remains of a residential tower and water moats once fed by the Schwarzbach river. The ruins now sit within Goldsteinpark and reveal the original layout of a water-defended fortress positioned around a horseshoe courtyard.
The castle was founded in the 14th century by the noble family zum Goldstein and served as both residence and defensive outpost. After the family's extinction, Frankfurt city took control in 1466.
The site shows the typical layout of a medieval water castle with its moat system and residential tower serving defensive purposes. Visitors can observe how such fortifications were designed to protect the surrounding territory.
The ruins and moats can be viewed freely within Goldsteinpark and are accessible year-round. The site is best visited during dry weather since the ground around the moats can remain damp.
Its construction around 1348 defied imperial decrees that banned fortified structures within 5 miles (8 km) of Frankfurt. This bold move reflected the determination of the local family zum Goldstein to assert independence despite restrictions from above.
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