Gnandstein Castle

The origins of Gnandstein Castle date back to the early 13th century when it was built as a Romanesque complex with a rectangular layout and a residential tower. A 25-meter-deep well dates from this early construction phase. Around 1225/30, a three-story palas was erected, which was raised by another story in the late 14th century. The defensive structures were reinforced by an outer bailey wall to the east, and in the mid-13th century, a round keep was added to the upper castle courtyard. In the 15th century, a Gothic residential wing, a late Gothic chapel, and the gatehouse were added. At the end of the 14th century, the castle came into the possession of the von Einsiedel noble family.