Alte Burg, Medieval castle ruins in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Alte Burg is a medieval fortress sitting on a ridge above the Tauber Valley with remnants of circular defensive walls, gates, and the Blasius Chapel still standing. The surviving structures form part of Rothenburg's historic layout, with some walls now incorporated into modern buildings.
The fortress originated in 1142 when King Conrad III built it after receiving land from the Neumünster foundation. In 1407, Rothenburg's citizens intentionally demolished the structure to prevent enemies from using it as a military stronghold.
The Blasius Chapel remains visible in the ruins today with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural details. This small sanctuary reflects the religious life that once centered on the fortress grounds.
The ruins are scattered throughout the town and can be viewed from various public spots around the old town walls. The best vantage point is from the slopes overlooking the Tauber Valley, where you can see how the castle once commanded the landscape.
Local residents salvaged stones from the demolished fortress to build and repair their own houses after 1407. This is why sections of the original medieval walls now form the foundations and outer walls of private homes throughout the old town.
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