Zella Castle

The origins of the Zella Provostry date back to 1136, when Count Erpho von Neidhartshausen founded a Benedictine nunnery. Archaeological findings confirm the foundation walls of the original convent building on the east facade of the current castle. In 1284, when the Abbey of Fulda was elevated to a principality, Zella Monastery became an administrative seat under the leadership of a provost. Although the monastery survived the turmoil of the Peasants' War, it was dissolved in the 16th century by the Counts of Hennerberg. However, the provostry and its associated settlement remained in Fulda's possession, forming a Catholic enclave. After the Thirty Years' War, Zella served as a starting point for a counter-reformation, which ultimately failed.