Vorderburg

Vorderburg is a castle in Neckarsteinach comprising a residential building, a tower, and a farm building, positioned on elevated terrain overlooking the Neckar River. The layout shows the typical arrangement of a medieval noble fortification with defensive features.

The castle was built in the early 13th century by Ulrich I of Steinach and served as a defensive fortification during the Hohenstaufen dynasty. This construction was part of the family's consolidation of power in the Neckar region.

This castle is part of Neckarsteinach's Four Castle ensemble, which reflects the medieval power structure of the region. The arrangement shows how noble families exercised control over the Neckar valley and built their seats close to one another.

The castle remains in private ownership and is not open to the public, but visitors can see its exterior while walking the Four Castle route through the area. The surrounding path provides good views of the structure from different angles.

The castle retains its original ramparts from the 13th century, providing a rare look at the defensive construction methods of that era. These authentic fortifications are seldom preserved as well as they are here.