Starkenburg Castle, Heppenheim, Germany

Starkenburg Castle, built in 1065 on Schlossberg mountain above Heppenheim’s picturesque old town, is one of the oldest castles to be found in the western Odenwald region. At first, it resembled a Roman fort, which consisted of simple wooden constructions, towers, earthworks and bulwarks. King Frederick entrusted the Archbishop of Mainz with Lorsch Abbey and Starkenburg Castle in 1232. Under the rule of the Electoral Mainz, the castle was reconstructed into a late medieval fort castle.

In 1675-1689, Archbishop-Elector of Mainz Anselm of Ingelheim pushed the castle’s reconstruction. It was designed to be a fortress complex and a place of agricultural production, storage and administration. It was designed imitating the French model. In 1765, the Mainz occupying troops were withdrawn and the castle was released to be demolished and parts of the castle fell victim to demolition. The keep of the romantic castle ruin had to be torn down in 1924 due to its ruinous state. It was rebuilt in a different design in the entrance area. The residential building was also reconstructed, however, in a modern design. Later, a further new Jugendherberge (youth hostel) was constructed up there. With 121 beds and 5 seminar rooms, it offers best conditions for a comfortable stay in romantic surroundings.

References:

heppeinheim.de

User Reviews

Martin Vanta (9 months ago)
A pleasant way up past rich vineyards with great views. A romantic walk for everyone.

Paddy McHale (9 months ago)
Moderate hike to top ,I took the old route that goes up half way through the center but it’s over grown and very narrow , don’t take children this way or anyone who has difficulty with balance . At the top and along the way the views are fantastic, came down the regular path . Nice restaurant on the top and you can have a well deserved drink . Recommended

Martin Reinheimer (15 months ago)
Beautiful view. Very tidy place. There is actually a lot left of it. Seems pretty intact. Yet not much merchandise or made for entertainment or educational purposes. We took the short way up, wich is very steeply and narrow

Big Daddy Stick (2 years ago)
Really cool castle. Drove all the way up. Parking was available. Was able to go inside and have a drink. Souvenirs available. Free entry.

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