Alsbach Castle, Alsbach-Hähnlein, Germany

Alsbach Castle was built around 1235 by Gottfried I von Bickenbach and called Bickenbach Castle. The Bickenbachs were a minor noble family from the Odenwald. This more-substantial structure was probably the successor to an earlier motte and bailey castle located on nearby Weiler Hill and was built to protect the family’s territorial interests after Lorsch Abbey became a subordinate of the Archbishopric of Mainz.

In 1463, the free city of Frankfurt, in retaliation for a robbery committed against one of the communal owners, overran the castle, plundered it and burnt it to the ground. It was quickly rebuilt. During the War of Succession of Landshut the Landgrave of Hessen, Wilhelm I, took the castle in 1504 without a fight, and it remained, thereafter, in Hessen hands.

During the Thirty Years War (1618 - 1648), the castle was used by the local population as a place of refuge, though afterwards it was abandoned, fell into disrepair and was used as a source of building stones for other structures. It was not until the end of the 19th century that the Grand Duke of Hesse-Darmstadt secured the ruins, and after World War II, restoration began in earnest. The castle was then renamed Alsbacher Schloss.

References:

englishspeakingodenwald.blogspot.com

User Reviews

Laszik Stefan (11 months ago)
Very interesting castle ruin, atop a hill, with great views all around. Can be visited freely, no entrance fee. There area a few animals roaming around, like chickens, some rabbits and peacocks. Children will love it.

J. Barrett (2 years ago)
Small Castle, but from around the 1700s. You can hike to this castle from town, or you can park your car in a very small parking lot adjacent to the castle. There is also a small restaurant where you can get small plates and beers as well once you are inside. Great little place to visit, doesn't take very long to see everything. Recommend checking the spice out if you are in the area.

Katie Oliver (3 years ago)
A cute little castle that is being well cared for. There are gardens, chickens, rabbits, and peacocks. It is easy to get to with lots of parking.

Joe W (3 years ago)
Nice Place to go with friends and family

T RS (3 years ago)
A historical palace in ruins but still in good shape to have first hand experience! This 13th century masterpiece is now well maintained and open for the public visits and for the private events. By being on a small hill, about 300m, and on the top of watch tower, one can have a nice view of the surroundings. There’s a wine and beer garden inside the site. Driving up the hill needs caution. Though less car parking places are at the site, it’s still enough if it’s not a busy day / time. Easily approachable by road.

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