The history of the Klippenstein castle dates back to 1289 when it was first mentioned as 'Castrum Radeberch' in official records. From 1543 to 1546, Moritz of Saxony had the castle converted into a hunting lodge and residential palace. It is also among the most significant surviving examples of sovereign architecture built during the reign of Moritz Elector of Saxony, a famous ruler from the House of Wettin. Members of the Saxon nobility often resided here. The influence of the Renaissance remains visible in many architectural details at castle.
Both its use as a noble residence and its use as a government administrative building greatly influenced the historical development of the castle complex. The poet August Friedrich Ernst Langbein descends from the dynasty of the Langbein family, who were the Electoral Officials at Klippenstein Castle in the 18th and early 19th centuries. It was not until 1952 that the district court was moved to another location, thus ending the era of the castle´s use as a government administrative building and clearing the way for it to house the heritage museum. All of these eras have left their mark on the castle.
Today, Klippenstein Castle attracts numerous visitiors by its museum of the history of the castle and its surrounding town. It is a cultural center for the Radeberg region, offering a wide range of events and exhibitions, rental opportunities, guided tours and educational programs for children.
References:The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.