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Founded: 13th centuryCategory: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Hohenstaufen Dynasty (Germany)
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Poppenburg Castle, located in Burgstemmen above the River Leine, once controlled a key medieval trade route between Minden and Hildesheim. First mentioned in 1251, it was built on a strategic hill and likely dates back earlier, originally owned by the noble family of the same name.
In 1049, Emperor Henry III granted the land to the Bishopric of Hildesheim. By the mid-13th century, the bishopric fully controlled the castle and expanded it, turning it into a fortified residence. Several bishops resided here and made structural additions, including the residential wing and a strong stone hall tower.
The castle lost military importance after the Hildesheim Diocesan Feud in 1523 and underwent various renovations. It returned to church control in 1643, and by the late 18th century, part of the complex was converted into a Catholic church, consecrated in 1786. Stones from demolished sections were reused for new buildings, including a rectory and parish offices.
In the 20th century, Poppenburg saw further changes. In 1964, the Diaconal Works of Hildesheim acquired the site, converting it into a group home. Since 1967, it has served as a residence for women with intellectual disabilities.
Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.
Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.
There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.