Hatzburg, Lowland castle in Wedel, Germany
Hatzburg is a lowland castle site in Wedel marked by gently rising mounds that show where medieval fortifications once stood beside the Elbe River. Foundation outlines remain visible across the terrain, accompanied by a reconstructed model that helps visitors understand the tower's original appearance.
The castle was built around 1300 by the Counts of Schauenburg and first mentioned in written records from 1311 in connection with merchant protection agreements. It continued to serve administrative purposes for centuries after residents abandoned it as a home around 1400.
The name Hatzburg reflects the medieval defensive role this location once played along the river. Today, visitors can observe how the landscape itself marks where people built and maintained control over passing traffic.
The site is easily accessible for a casual walk across the terrain, and no special equipment is needed to explore the mounds and earthworks. Taking time to examine the interpretive model will help you grasp the original layout and defensive design of the structure.
Archaeological work uncovered multiple construction phases, with both wooden and stone watchtowers from different periods layered into the site. This discovery reveals how the defenders adapted and rebuilt their fortifications over time rather than building once and abandoning the place.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
