Clingenburg Castle

In 1100, a nobleman named Heinrich named himself after the old Clingenburg (castle). He belonged to the noble family of Reginbodo. The Clingengurg castle was built around 1160-1170 by Conradus Colbo, who was cup-bearer to Emperor Friedrich Barbarossa.

About 1250, the Bickenbach noble family moved into the castle; the Bickenbachs later held many influential offices in the Holy Roman Empire and many a time turned up in Imperial politics as brokers.

After the Bickenbachs died out in 1500, the town, castle and lordly domain passed to the Archbishop of Mainz.  Clingenburg castle was destroyed by the French in the late 17th century and never rebuilt. It remained a ruin.

In the 20th century Clingenburg was opened up to tourism with a restaurant and a lookout platform affording visitors a view over the old town and the Main valley. Since 1994, the Clingenburg-Festspiele have been taking place, drawing many visitors each year with changing plays and musicals.

Address

Clingenburgstraße 5, Klingenberg am Main, Germany

Details

Founded: 1160-1170
Category: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Hohenstaufen Dynasty (Germany)