Château du Petit-Arnsberg

The first documented mention of Klein-Arnsberg Castle dates back to the 14th century, although the preserved masonry, particularly the bossed ashlar on the gate tower, suggests an origin in the late Staufer period, specifically the mid-13th century. Originally a fief of the Wissembourg Abbey, the rock castle was inhabited by the Lords of Wasigenstein. In 1335, the castle was besieged and conquered, as it served as a hideout for the robber knight Friedrich von Wasigenstein. From 1360 onwards, the property frequently changed hands, including the Lords of Ochsenstein and, around 1400, the Lords of Dahn. In 1420, Friedrich von Dahn sold half of the castle to Ludwig von Lichtenberg. Later, around 1483, it was owned by the Lords of Adelsheim, before passing by inheritance to the Counts of Zweibrücken-Bitsch after 1485. They undertook extensive renovations from 1494.