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The construction of the Teutonic Castle in Dzierzgoń began in 1248, as ordered by the national champion Heinrich von Wida. At its location there was chosen towering hill over the area, where previously was a fortified city of Prussia, to protect the settlement lying at its feet. The fort was the seat of the Commander of Dzierzgoń, who also held the function of the Quatermaster (Obersttrappier) in the Order of the Teutonic Knights. During the heyday of the Teutonic Order Dzierzgon castle was considered to be in possession of the largest arsenal of weapons comparing to Malbork castle and the second largest Brodnica granary.
During the war of Polish and Teutonic Knights between 1409-1411, the the Dzierzgoń's monks took part in the battle of Grunwald, under the leadership of Commander Albrech von Schwarzburg. Their commander was killed in combat.
By the way of Polish forces at Malbork, the Polish King Władysław Jagiełło entered Dzierzgon and stayed at the castle. Here the King received a delegation from the Prussian towns, including Elbląg, which gave him a tribute of fidelity. In 1411 the castle was conquered by the Teutonic Knights. 42 Commanders served their role at the Dzierzgoń castle, among many of them later became the great masters of Teutonic Order. The Poles burned down the castle in Dzierzgoń twice during the war with the Teutonic Knights in 1410 and 1414. Under the peace treaty of Toruń in 1466, the castle was returned to Poland, becoming the seat of the mayor and the municipal court.
References:Kakesbeck is one of the largest medieval fortifications in Münsterland and the oldest castle in Lüdinghausen. The imposingly grown complex originated in 1120 as a motte, a small hilltop tower castle. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle was extended onto two islands, but it was not until the 14th century that it underwent significant alterations and extensions under the von Oer family. The estate experienced its heyday in the middle of the 18th century, when it covered an area of almost one square kilometre and consisted of five further outer castles in addition to the core castle, which were secured by ramparts and moats.
The well-maintained condition of the castle today is thanks to the late Wilfried Grewing, the former lord of the castle. The foundation named after him has been particularly committed to preserving the property since 2020.