Freusburg

Kirchen, Germany

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Freusburg is a medieval castle situated high above the Sieg Valley between Mudersbach and Kirchen in Germany. It was first mentioned in historical records in the year 913 under the name "Fruodeesbraderofanc," which referred to a court holding or noble headquarters. The castle itself is believed to have been built around 1100 and is documented by name in 1247.

Over the centuries, it has served multiple roles including a residence, court of justice, forester’s apartment, military training camp, and even a reserve hospital. Around 1580, Count Henry IV of Sayn renovated the castle. In 1896, the castle came into possession of the Prussian Forstfiskus and was used as a forest house.

Since 1928, Freusburg has operated as a youth hostel and was fully renovated and reopened in 1986 by German President Richard von Weizsäcker. Today, it is one of the most visited youth hostels in Germany, offering accommodation, conference facilities, and cultural events. It also provides panoramic views over the Sieg Valley and the surrounding forested landscape.