Weißenstein Castle

In the year 1257, a castle on the mountain spur above the town of Weißenstein was mentioned for the first time. However, no remains of the castle are preserved. Today, the Weißenstein Castle stands on this site, and has for over 500 years.

The current complex dates from the 15th century. It is mentioned on June 18, 1548, when Georg III von Rechberg und Staufeneck und Weißenstein zu Kronburg-Kellmünz († 1574) received homage in the castle courtyard of Weißenstein. In the 17th century, under Count Wolf Konrad von Rechberg († 1617), the stepped gables, towers, bay windows, and galleries were built. Before Count Otto Ulrich von Rechberg und Rothenlöwen moved into the castle in 1865, major alterations were made. The Tafelbau, a projecting, two-story building, was demolished and a terrace was built on its substructure.

An octagonal tower for the defense of the covered passage down to the church is located in the southeast corner. In the south wall, the choir of the castle chapel, projecting in three sides of the octagon, is housed. The vaulted chapel room was probably furnished in Baroque style around 1700. This is indicated by the altar with the alliance coat of arms of Rechberg and Bömelberg. In 1877, the chapel was last renovated in neo-Gothic style. The north wing has a bay window on the northeast corner and a thick round tower on the northwest corner, which guards the entrance.