Esslingen Castle

The origins of Esslingen's fortifications date back to its elevation to a city by Frederick II in 1219, when it was first protected by walls. The connection of the outpost on the Schönenberg to the city's defenses was established later, in 1286 and 1287, by Rudolf von Habsburg, who added two flank walls. A third flank wall followed in the 14th century. Between 1519 and 1531, the complex was expanded with a castle staircase, as well as a rampart and ditch on the city side. This fortification proved its worth in 1519 by repelling an attack by Duke Ulrich of Württemberg.