Upper Castle Talheim

The exact origins of the Upper Castle are obscure, but it is generally dated to the 12th or 13th century. It likely emerged after the original manor house of the locality. In the High Middle Ages, two other castle complexes were built in Talheim, indicating a fragmentation of property ownership. The Lords of Talheim are considered the builders and had their ancestral seat here. The original medieval complex, with its shield wall, curtain wall, zwinger, and keep, differed significantly from its current appearance. Through further divisions of ownership and numerous alterations by various proprietors until the late 16th century, the castle acquired its present form with three adjoining residential buildings. In 1456, the eastern part came into the possession of the Counts of Katzenelnbogen and later the House of Hesse. After complex changes in ownership and disputes, the sons of Gerhard von Talheim divided the castle courtyard with a wall in the 16th century. The western part came to the Lyher family through marriage, while the eastern part remained with the Lords of Talheim. Following further conflicts, Württemberg took possession of the western part in 1606.