Schloss Wald an der Alz, Castle in Garching an der Alz, Bavaria, Germany

Schloss Wald an der Alz is a compound on elevated ground in Garching that combines baroque wings built atop medieval foundations. The complex is surrounded by a wide moat and was originally protected through water-based defensive systems.

The compound began as a medieval fortification and was transformed into a seat of power under Duke Frederick in 1505. The baroque additions came later as its role shifted from pure military defense to residential quarters.

The castle complex is listed as a Bodendenkmal for the medieval and early modern remains beneath it, including the former castle chapel and the parish church of St. Erasmus with its associated farmyard. The name Wald derives from the noble family of the Herren von Wald, first documented with Adelprht de Silva in 1139.

The castle itself is privately owned and not open to the public, but the adjacent St. Erasmus chapel functions as a parish church and welcomes visitors. It is best to view the exterior from the base of the hill to fully see the medieval fortification design and water defenses.

The bridge over the moat remains the only access to the building complex and shows how entrance control was originally managed. This simple but effective defensive feature has kept its purpose for centuries.