Schwanenburg, Medieval fortress ruins in Elte, Germany
Schwanenburg was a medieval fortress located between Rheine and Elte in the marshy floodplains of the former Ems River course. The structure stood just southwest of the Willer farmstead and was eventually dismantled, with its materials reused for the old church in Mesum.
The fortress was first documented in 1303, taking its name from the swan symbol of the Steinfurt nobles. It was destroyed in 1343 during conflicts between Bishop Ludwig of Münster and the Steinfurt nobility.
The location held significance for the Steinfurt noble family, with its name derived from the swan emblem they displayed on their coat of arms. This symbol remains part of local identity and connects the region to its medieval roots.
The site is located in flat, marshy terrain and is visible today only through aerial photographs and satellite mapping. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and treat the area with care, as it is a sensitive archaeological location.
Archaeological research revealed that the fortress was surprisingly constructed in a depression rather than on elevated ground as previously assumed. This unusual placement was a significant finding that contradicted earlier local historical understanding.
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