Zavelstein Castle

Archaeological findings suggest that Zavelstein Castle was built around the mid-13th century. Its first documented mention dates back to 1303, with a knight Richelin already named as an inhabitant around 1280. As early as 1311, Zavelstein became the property of the Counts of Württemberg and served to secure newly acquired territories in the northern Black Forest. In the 14th century, the castle was frequently granted as a fief or pledge, including to the Counts of Tübingen. It played a role in 1367 when Count Eberhard II of Württemberg and his son Ulrich fled here to escape capture. Due to financial difficulties, the lordship of Zavelstein changed hands several times until more stable conditions were established in 1468 with its pledging to Burkhard von Ehingen. During the Peasants' War in 1525, the castle was damaged. Duke Christoph of Württemberg redeemed the pledge in 1552.