Ratzenhofen Castle

The first documented mention of Ratzenhofen Castle dates back to 1542, although its origins are likely older. In the same year, Felix von Honburg zu Langenstein sold the property to Wolfgang Honburger, the chief bailiff of Jungnau. It is believed that the Schlössle was originally owned by the Lords of Friedingen, as the consent of Honburg's wife, a born von Friedingen, was required for the sale. In 1577, Leonhard Ratzenhofen acquired the building, giving it its current name. In 1589, the castle came into the possession of the House of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen when Count Karl II purchased it. His successor, Count Johann, established a mint there. During the Thirty Years' War, the Schlössle was partially destroyed by Swedish troops in 1633 but was quickly rebuilt.