Sommerau Castle

The origins of Sommerau Castle date back to the late 13th century, when it was built after 1271 as a counter-fortification by the Archbishop of Mainz against the possessions of the Counts of Rieneck. The estate was initially granted as a fief to the Kottwitz family. From 1365, the related Kottwitz and Fechenbach families shared ownership, with the Fechenbachs becoming sole owners from 1550. During the Peasants' War in 1525, the castle was stormed and set ablaze by rebellious farmers, but it was rebuilt. Further destruction occurred during the Thirty Years' War. The wing still standing today was built around 1650, preserving parts of the defensive tower and the moated ditch. After the death of the last male Fechenbach descendant, the castle passed to the Aufseß heirs.