Burg Bartelstein, Medieval castle in Scheer, Germany
Burg Bartelstein sits on a limestone rock above the left bank of the Danube, displaying both round and rectangular towers topped with distinctive hipped roofs. The structure makes use of the natural rock formation beneath it as part of its foundation.
The original fortress was built between the 11th and 12th centuries, with Ortolf von Bartelstein recognized as its first noble resident. The 18th century brought a shift to use as a prison before later changes to its purpose.
The name comes from an old German word meaning axe, tied to a former execution site that once stood near these grounds. Locals still recall this dark origin when discussing the castle's past.
The castle is privately owned and not currently open to visitors as it requires extensive renovation work. From a distance along the Danube or nearby vantage points, you can still view its distinctive outline and tower shapes.
The castle went through unusual transformations, shifting from a defensive fortress to a prison and later gaining Art Nouveau design elements added by local architects. These different purposes left their mark on how the building looks and is organized.
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