Wasserburg Zilly, Water castle in Osterwieck, Germany.
Wasserburg Zilly is a water castle in Osterwieck surrounded by water-filled moats that divide it into distinct areas. The fortification features heavy stone walls constructed to separate different sections using waterways as natural barriers.
The castle first appeared in historical records in 1172 when it served as a fortified seat for the Counts of Regenstein. By 1504 it had passed to the Bishop of Halberstadt, marking a shift in its strategic importance and administration.
The castle takes its name from the surrounding municipality and draws visitors who appreciate how well its buildings reflect noble life from earlier centuries. The spaces inside show how ruling families organized their daily activities and governance.
The grounds now include a kindergarten alongside its historical structures, so visitor access may be limited to certain areas and times. It is best to check locally about current opening arrangements before planning your visit.
The main tower has survived unchanged since its original construction, preserving a rare example of medieval fortress architecture in complete form. Few castles of this age maintain such unaltered defensive structures from their earliest period.
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