Winterstein Castle (Ruin) (Ostrau)

The Winterstein rock castle was probably built in the 13th century by the Bohemian noble family Berken von der Duba, who expanded their rule in the region. The castle was first mentioned in a document in 1379, when it was pledged by the Bohemian King Wenceslaus IV to his chamberlain Thimo von Colditz. After further pledges and unclear ownership, Winterstein passed to the Meissen Margrave Wilhelm I in 1404. Between 1406 and 1408, the castle was occupied by a margravial-Meissen garrison. Around 1440, Winterstein probably returned to Bohemian possession and was used by the robber knight known as “Recke zcum Wintersteine”.