Twin Castles of Bavaria – Touring the Fortified Ruin of Hohenfreyberg Castle

Описание: Full exploration video can be found on my YouTube channel ‪@TimelessExplorations‬ !

The castles of Hohenfreyberg and Eisenberg, located in the Allgäu region of southern Germany, are not only closely linked geographically but also historically and genealogically. Eisenberg was built by Friedrich of Freyberg the Elder. However, his son, Friedrich the Younger, rejected the architectural concept—especially the absence of massive towers. In response, he began construction of his own castle in 1418, in close proximity: Hohenfreyberg.

The construction lasted approximately 14 years and represents one of the last major castle foundations of the German Middle Ages. Due to the high maintenance costs, Hohenfreyberg—like Eisenberg—came under Habsburg ownership around 1484. During this period, both castles underwent structural modifications and modernization, particularly in response to evolving military technologies.

A notable example is the integration of artillery fortifications at Hohenfreyberg, which proved decisive during the German Peasants’ War: while Eisenberg was captured, Hohenfreyberg remained unconquered.

In 1646, toward the end of the Thirty Years’ War, both castles were deliberately set on fire to prevent them from falling into the hands of advancing Swedish and French forces.

Today, the ruins offer not only an impressive glimpse into late medieval military architecture but also serve as valuable archaeological sites for research into construction phases, noble residences, and the adaptation of military structures during the late Middle Ages.

For those interested in fortified lordly residences in southern Germany, Hohenfreyberg and Eisenberg represent two highly rewarding objects of study.
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